57 movers in Council Bluffs
What to know when moving to Council Bluffs, IA
Council Bluffs at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 33.8% of residents are renters and the median household income is $59,314.
- The Major Draw:
- Median gross rent here is $997, making it accessible for many.
- The Reality Check:
- With a poverty rate of 13.6%, some residents may face economic challenges.
- Commute:
- Only 0.8% of residents use public transit, indicating a car-dependent area.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for $997 per month in rent to secure a place.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Council Bluffs has a population of 34,928, characterized by a relatively low education level, with only 16.7% holding a bachelor's degree or higher. The community has a renter population of 33.8%, suggesting a mix of residents, but the 13.6% poverty rate indicates that not everyone is financially secure. Weather-wise, the area sees about 67 rainy days a year, so be prepared for wet weather.
Probably not your spot if: you prefer areas with higher educational attainment or a lower poverty rate.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $997, which is affordable compared to many larger cities.
- The median home value is $140,400, allowing for homeownership opportunities.
- Approximately 33.8% of residents are renters, indicating a balanced housing market.
- The poverty rate stands at 13.6%, reflecting some economic diversity within the community.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
Iowa's crime statistics show a lower rate of both violent and property crimes compared to the national averages. The violent crime rate in Iowa is 236.6 per 100,000 residents, which is 27.3% lower than the national rate. Property crime stands at 1201.8 per 100,000 residents, also 22.3% below the national average.
- Violent crime: 236.6 per 100k vs. national 325.3, down 20% since 2022.
- Property crime: 1201.8 per 100k vs. national 1546.9, down 17.3% since 2022.
- Notable trend: Homicides have decreased by 21.2% since 2022.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Iowa).
Schools & Higher Ed
There are 16 postsecondary institutions in the surrounding area, with several options nearby. Notable nearby schools include Iowa Western Community College and SOHO Hair Academy, both located in Council Bluffs, as well as several institutions in Omaha, Nebraska, just across the river.
- Iowa Western Community College
- SOHO Hair Academy
- Bellevue University (Bellevue, NE)
- Creighton University (Omaha, NE)
Source: ArcGIS Postsecondary School Locations, NCES College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Pottawattamie County experiences an average annual high of 72°F and approximately 25.5 inches of precipitation each year, with about 67 rainy days. Snowfall is minimal, averaging only 0.4 inches annually. If you enjoy outdoor activities, consider visiting nearby parks.
- Heartland of America Park at The RiverFront - 4.6 stars (2,768 reviews)
- Lake Manawa State Park - 4.5 stars (2,600 reviews)
- Lewis & Clark Landing at The RiverFront - 4.7 stars (1,505 reviews)
- Bayliss Park - 4.5 stars (1,320 reviews)
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
Pottawattamie County has a labor force of 48,034, with an unemployment rate of 3.9% as of December 2025. That translates to 46,154 employed residents, indicating a relatively stable job market.
- Unemployment rate: 3.9% (December 2025)
- Employed residents: 46,154
- Labor force total: 48,034
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.
