LIVABILITY

Iowa is one of the most livable states in the nation and livability in Mid Iowa is second to none.  In today’s economy and global environment livability may be a critical factor in the decision process in order to select a safe, clean and vibrant community. 

According to CQ Press, 2010:

• Iowa is ranked the nation's 2nd-most livable state based on 43 factors ranging from median household income to crime rate and from sunny days to infant mortality rate.
• Iowa ranks 9th in the nation for number of state parks, recreational areas and natural areas.
• Iowa ranks 10th in safest neighborhoods in the U.S.
• Iowa has the 3rd-highest public high school graduation rate in the U.S.

Quality of Life Statistical Comparisons:
Midwest, Northeast, South Central and Western States vs. Iowa.

Additional livability statistics:

• Crime Rate (US), Iowa – 9th best in the Nation with 2,704.7 crimes per 100,000 people.
• Value of Housing, Iowa – 7th best in the Nation with a 74% Homeownership rate, $122,000 Median value of a house and $1,229 Monthly median mortgage costs.
• Travel Time to Work, Iowa – 7th best in the nation with an 18.5 minute average commute time.
• Auto Insurance Premiums – 1st in the nation.  Iowans pay the lowest combined average auto insurance premiums of any state in the nation.