Largest cities in Iowa

Iowa, known for its rolling plains and agricultural abundance, is a state that offers a high quality of life and a strong sense of community. With a population of approximately 3.2 million, it ranks as the 31st most populated state in the U.S. Iowa has experienced stable population growth, reflecting its economic stability and appealing living conditions. Bordered by Minnesota to the north, Wisconsin and Illinois to the east, Missouri to the south, and Nebraska and South Dakota to the west, Iowa offers a range of living environments across its roughly 940 cities and towns.

Living in Iowa provides residents with numerous benefits, including a low cost of living, excellent schools, and a rich cultural scene. The state's low population density allows for spacious living and a slower pace of life, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and community engagement. Iowa's economy is diverse, with strengths in agriculture, manufacturing, and education. The state's stable population growth supports a sustainable and balanced development path. The AreaVibes list of the largest cities in Iowa, is compiled using data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey, highlights Iowa cities by population, showcasing the state's most significant urban centers.

Des Moines Population: 215,408 Livability Score: 83

Area Size: 229 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,443 Med. Household Income: $54,843

Des Moines, IA, known as 'The Hartford of the West,' offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern urban amenities. Located in the heart of Iowa, Des Moines is a large city that serves as the state capital and a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Ames and West Des Moines enhance its status as a central point in the region. Des Moines's blend of historic landmarks, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Cedar Rapids Population: 133,125 Livability Score: 76

Area Size: 183 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,846 Med. Household Income: $60,787

Cedar Rapids, IA, known as 'The City of Five Seasons,' offers a unique blend of suburban tranquility and modern urban amenities. Located in Linn County, Cedar Rapids is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Iowa City (28 miles) and Waterloo (55 miles) enhance its status as a central point in the region. Cedar Rapids' blend of scenic landscapes, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Davenport Population: 102,199 Livability Score: 77

Area Size: 165 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,602 Med. Household Income: $53,140

Davenport, Iowa, known as part of "The Quad Cities," is a vibrant and diverse community located near Bettendorf and Moline, IL. With its scenic riverfront, strong local economy, and rich cultural heritage, Davenport offers a high quality of life for its residents. The city's blend of suburban tranquility and urban amenities makes living in Davenport an attractive option for families and professionals.

Sioux City Population: 82,535 Livability Score: 79

Area Size: 151 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,412 Med. Household Income: $57,750

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Iowa City Population: 75,849 Livability Score: 85

Area Size: 67 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,957 Med. Household Income: $48,148

Waterloo Population: 67,671 Livability Score: 80

Area Size: 159 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,099 Med. Household Income: $46,942

West Des Moines Population: 66,724 Livability Score: 85

Area Size: 121 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,413 Med. Household Income: $74,159

Ames Population: 66,361 Livability Score: 91

Area Size: 65 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,406 Med. Household Income: $50,783

Ankeny Population: 64,744 Livability Score: 92

Area Size: 77 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,125 Med. Household Income: $89,484

Council Bluffs Population: 62,376 Livability Score: 69

Area Size: 111 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,452 Med. Household Income: $53,449

Full list of the largest cities in Iowa

Rank	Location	Population	Area KM²	Median Income	Livability Score
1	Des Moines	215,408	229	$54,843	83
2	Cedar Rapids	133,125	183	$60,787	76
3	Davenport	102,199	165	$53,140	77
4	Sioux City	82,535	151	$57,750	79
5	Iowa City	75,849	67	$48,148	85
6	Waterloo	67,671	159	$46,942	80
7	West Des Moines	66,724	121	$74,159	85
8	Ames	66,361	65	$50,783	91
9	Ankeny	64,744	77	$89,484	92
10	Council Bluffs	62,376	111	$53,449	69
11	Dubuque	58,052	79	$54,938	87
12	Urbandale	43,879	58	$95,961	90
13	Cedar Falls	40,750	75	$64,809	81
14	Marion	39,910	46	$72,500	82
15	Bettendorf	36,214	55	$85,404	79
16	Mason City	27,064	72	$53,406	80
17	Marshalltown	26,957	50	$54,778	75
18	Clinton	25,290	91	$46,066	71
19	Burlington	24,858	37	$46,707	70
20	Ottumwa	24,505	41	$42,418	77
21	Fort Dodge	24,168	42	$44,290	74
22	Muscatine	23,661	47	$53,768	68
23	Waukee	22,598	35	$94,371	84
24	Johnston	22,077	44	$92,984	81
25	Coralville	21,630	33	$68,230	87
26	North Liberty	19,159	23	$85,435	83
27	Altoona	18,917	25	$79,482	81
28	Clive	17,246	20	$107,268	82
29	Indianola	15,921	29	$62,761	81
30	Newton	15,160	29	$48,417	77
31	Grimes	13,746	30	$89,113	78
32	Boone	12,470	23	$60,854	77
33	Oskaloosa	11,727	21	$49,856	79
34	Norwalk	11,467	29	$83,241	76
35	Spencer	11,038	28	$45,224	76
36	Storm Lake	10,508	14	$47,943	76
37	Fort Madison	10,407	25	$44,334	74
38	Fairfield	10,327	17	$42,862	76
39	Pella	10,279	23	$75,848	89
40	Keokuk	10,225	24	$43,304	74
41	Waverly	10,172	29	$65,701	82
42	Le Mars	10,012	23	$68,306	80
43	Pleasant Hill	9,959	23	$74,612	78
44	Carroll	9,823	15	$49,555	79
45	Grinnell	9,069	14	$50,668	73
46	Mount Pleasant	8,574	22	$51,615	80
47	Denison	8,319	17	$53,808	77
48	Creston	7,754	13	$44,631	80
49	Webster City	7,699	23	$54,531	78
50	Perry	7,660	14	$47,802	71

Methodology

To compile the list of the largest cities in Iowa, AreaVibes used census data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS). The American Community Survey releases updated estimates annually, offering a valuable resource for understanding the evolving dynamics within communities. These estimates are crucial for officials, community leaders, businesses, and local residents as they provide insights into demographic, economic, and social changes. By analyzing ACS data, stakeholders can make informed decisions, plan for future developments, and address the needs of their communities effectively. The detailed population information from the ACS helps track trends, allocate resources, and implement policies that enhance the quality of life for all residents.

Map of the population Density by State

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The map above serves as an excellent tool for discovering the most and least densely populated states across the United States. By highlighting both the states with the highest and lowest population density, it offers a comprehensive view of the nation's demographic landscape. This visual representation allows users to easily compare different regions, making it a valuable resource for anyone considering relocation or investment opportunities. Living in high density states could give you access to the following benefits: additional economic opportunities, enhanced amenities, improved health care, better infrastructure and technological advancement. Less densely poupulated states on the other hand, often have a lower cost of living, reduced traffic, closer-knit communities, abundant natural spaces and lower crime rates.