Largest cities in Iowa

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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: 221,968 Livability Score: 81

Area Size: 229 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,510 Med. Household Income: $82,534

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: 136,032 Livability Score: 78

Area Size: 183 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,922 Med. Household Income: $89,709

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: 105,320 Livability Score: 78

Area Size: 165 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,658 Med. Household Income: $79,074

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: 85,304 Livability Score: 78

Area Size: 151 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,460 Med. Household Income: $85,184

Living in Sioux City, IA offers a perfect blend of history, cultural vibrancy, and economic opportunity. Located along the Missouri River, Sioux City is a hub of activity in northwest Iowa, known for its rich history and welcoming community. The cityâ€™s historic downtown area features a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, including the Orpheum Theatre and the Sioux City Art Center, which provide a glimpse into the cityâ€™s artistic heritage.

Iowa City Population: 77,990 Livability Score: 85

Area Size: 67 KM² Density (sq mi): 3,013 Med. Household Income: $71,058

Waterloo Population: 70,052 Livability Score: 81

Area Size: 159 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,141 Med. Household Income: $69,795

West Des Moines Population: 68,345 Livability Score: 87

Area Size: 121 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,467 Med. Household Income: $108,307

Ames Population: 68,047 Livability Score: 92

Area Size: 65 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,699 Med. Household Income: $74,201

Ankeny Population: 66,592 Livability Score: 92

Area Size: 77 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,252 Med. Household Income: $135,242

Council Bluffs Population: 63,786 Livability Score: 70

Area Size: 111 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,488 Med. Household Income: $79,153

Full list of the largest cities in Iowa

Rank	Location	Population	Area KM²	Median Income	Livability Score
1	Des Moines	221,968	229	$82,534	81
2	Cedar Rapids	136,032	183	$89,709	78
3	Davenport	105,320	165	$79,074	78
4	Sioux City	85,304	151	$85,184	78
5	Iowa City	77,990	67	$71,058	85
6	Waterloo	70,052	159	$69,795	81
7	West Des Moines	68,345	121	$108,307	87
8	Ames	68,047	65	$74,201	92
9	Ankeny	66,592	77	$135,242	92
10	Council Bluffs	63,786	111	$79,153	70
11	Dubuque	59,811	79	$83,245	89
12	Urbandale	45,000	58	$143,701	91
13	Cedar Falls	42,150	75	$95,329	82
14	Marion	41,096	46	$109,229	85
15	Bettendorf	37,477	55	$129,809	80
16	Marshalltown	27,894	50	$81,472	78
17	Mason City	27,815	72	$81,099	81
18	Clinton	25,804	91	$68,321	75
19	Burlington	25,653	37	$68,334	73
20	Ottumwa	25,168	41	$62,566	80
21	Fort Dodge	24,700	42	$67,304	71
22	Muscatine	24,516	47	$79,760	70
23	Waukee	23,183	35	$140,513	84
24	Johnston	22,844	44	$139,721	82
25	Coralville	22,380	33	$100,564	90
26	North Liberty	19,749	23	$125,619	84
27	Altoona	19,348	25	$116,991	80
28	Clive	17,633	20	$158,563	83
29	Indianola	16,415	29	$94,621	86
30	Newton	15,563	29	$71,623	77
31	Grimes	14,059	30	$130,546	80
32	Boone	12,825	23	$90,131	79
33	Oskaloosa	12,090	21	$73,684	81
34	Norwalk	11,804	29	$122,496	76
35	Spencer	11,331	28	$68,078	77
36	Storm Lake	10,898	14	$70,839	76
37	Fort Madison	10,650	25	$66,560	75
38	Fairfield	10,625	17	$64,216	79
39	Keokuk	10,556	24	$64,204	77
40	Pella	10,526	23	$112,200	90
41	Waverly	10,459	29	$97,900	86
42	Le Mars	10,368	23	$101,661	82
43	Pleasant Hill	10,217	23	$109,115	79
44	Carroll	10,175	15	$74,729	81
45	Grinnell	9,424	14	$75,206	79
46	Mount Pleasant	8,795	22	$77,453	84
47	Denison	8,630	17	$79,496	79
48	Creston	8,021	13	$65,839	81
49	Webster City	7,995	23	$79,718	78
50	Decorah	7,825	18	$82,733	86

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.