What to know when moving to Cedar Rapids, IA
Cedar Rapids at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 84.7% of residents rent, and 35% hold a bachelor's degree.
- The Major Draw:
- Median household income is $40,675, making it an affordable option in Iowa.
- The Reality Check:
- 22.7% of the population lives below the poverty line, indicating some economic challenges.
- Commute:
- Only 5.6% of residents use public transit.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for a median rent of $783 per month.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Cedar Rapids is a city with a significant renter population, making up 84.7% of its 2,192 residents. The median household income of $40,675 reflects a practical cost of living, but the 22.7% poverty rate indicates that some residents may face economic hardships. Education is valued here, with 35% of the population holding at least a bachelor's degree, suggesting a community that prioritizes academic achievement.
Probably not your spot if you are looking for strong public transit options, as only 5.6% of residents commute this way.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $783, while the median home value is $143,800.
- 35% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, contributing to a relatively educated community.
- The poverty rate is 22.7%, indicating some economic challenges within the population.
- 84.7% of the residents are renters, reflecting a high demand for rental properties.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
Iowa's crime rates show a downward trend in both violent and property crimes, which may provide some reassurance to potential residents.
- Violent crime: 236.6 per 100k, which is 27.3% lower than the national average.
- Property crime: 1201.8 per 100k, which is 22.3% lower than the national average.
- Notable trend: Homicide rates have dropped by 21.2% since 2022.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Iowa).
Schools & Higher Ed
Cedar Rapids has access to a variety of educational institutions that cater to different academic needs.
- 5 postsecondary institutions are available in the area.
- Institutions include Coe College and Kirkwood Community College.
Source: ArcGIS Postsecondary School Locations, NCES College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
The climate in Linn County averages about 27.9 inches of precipitation annually, with around 100 rainy days. Snowfall is minimal, averaging just 2.7 inches per year.
- Parks & outdoor spots worth checking out:
- Palisades-Kepler State Park (4.7, 1602 reviews)
- Thomas Park (4.6, 1496 reviews)
- Noelridge Park (4.6, 1383 reviews)
- Bever Park (4.6, 1047 reviews)
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
The job market in Linn County shows promising employment figures, reflecting a stable economy.
- Unemployment rate: 3.4% as of December 2025.
- 119,132 people are employed in the county.
- The labor force consists of 123,369 individuals.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.