Livability: Iowa City is one of the top 100 places to live in the U.S.



University of Iowa students pose for a photo in front of the Iowa City block letters in front of the Old Capitol Building during the Iowa City Downtown District Taste of Iowa City, Wednesday, Aug. 27, 2025, in Iowa City, Iowa. MANDATORY CREDIT: Joseph Cress/Think Iowa City

Why You’ll Love Living in Iowa City, IA

Livability has ranked Iowa City in its Best Places to Live in the U.S. for 2025.

“Located in the eastern part of the state, Iowa City boasts friendly folks, an incredible arts scene, highly ranked medical care, safe neighborhoods and quality schools,” Livability writes. “The University of Iowa adds that fun college vibe to the city, bringing locals together to cheer on the Hawkeyes.

As far as work goes, the city is home to both Fortune 500 companies and plenty of startups and is a leader in education technology. This college town in Eastern Iowa also makes the grade when it comes to education as the home of the University of Iowa, a renowned public research university, and quality education for K-12 students via the Iowa City Community School District.

Ask anyone here, well, anything, and they’ll gladly answer your question. The phenomenon of “Iowa Nice” is alive and well in Iowa City. The community of 78,000 is tight-knit, and the Hawkeye spirit is alive and well. Families enjoy exploring over 50 parks, open spaces and natural areas, as well as craft breweries, locally owned shops and a wide assortment of delectable restaurants,” Livability writes.

Read more by clicking here.

Visiting to support your team when they play the Hawks or looking for a staycation to make the most of a Hawkeye victory? Here’s the best hotels to kickoff your stay.

Element Iowa City

314 South Clinton Street Iowa City, Iowa 52240 USA

Residence Inn by Marriott Coralville

2681 James Street Coralville, Iowa 52241 USA

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson – Coralville

2571 Heartland Place Coralville, Iowa 52241 USA

Dutch Country Inn

110 East Avenue Kalona, Iowa 52247 USA

Hotel Millwright

800 48th Avenue Amana, Iowa 52203 USA

Hyatt Place Iowa City Downtown

255 E Court Street Iowa City, Iowa 52240 USA

Homewood Suites by Hilton Coralville – Iowa River Landing

921 E. 2nd Ave. Coralville, Iowa 52241 USA

SureStay Plus by Best Western Coralville Iowa City

200 6th Street Coralville, Iowa 52241 USA

The Highlander Hotel Iowa City

2525 Highlander Place Iowa City, Iowa 52245 USA

browse activities &

attractions

Discover the perfect mix of culture and adventure across Iowa City, Coralville, and North Liberty.

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Your checklist for football game days in Iowa City

Make the most of your football weekend!
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Downtown Iowa City

Wander through historic Downtown Iowa City with its charming pedestrian mall and eclectic mix of independent shops and eateries.
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Getting Here

Here, creativity lives on every stage, gallery wall, and page. With a pulse on the past and a passion for what’s next, our cultural scene will leave you inspired long after the final act.
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Rankings

Our area consistently ranks as a top community in which to live, work, play, and raise a family. The recognitions listed below are just a few of the accolades our destination has received in the last few years.
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Restaurants

In Iowa City you may feast upon milk shakes made from whole slices of pie, slurp corn chowder produced from the freshest and best corn on the planet, and order a jar of bacon as an appetizer.
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