Moving to Iowa statistics (2025 data)

How many people move to Iowa?

An estimated 73,176 people moved to Iowa in 2023, while 75,032 moved out. This represents a net loss of 1,856 residents. While the state was able to gain population in the form of international migration and natural births, overall domestic migration was negative.

Despite being among the top 10 best states to move to, Iowa is not popular with domestic migrants. According to a recent ConsumerAffairs study based on a sample of 143,506 ConsumerAffairs.com users who expressed an interest in moving between January 2023 and March 2024, Iowa ranked as the 32nd most desired state for relocation.

Top 5 cities that people moved to in Iowa

With the fourth highest education and health care scores based on data collected from several sources and accounting for weighted factors, Iowa ranks as the ninth best U.S. state to move to in 2024. The state ranks among the top 20 for most metrics, though a weak quality of life score is the primary factor preventing it from ranking higher.

Of those moving to the Hawkeye State, the majority are choosing to relocate to the suburbs surrounding Des Moines. Waukee — a prominent Des Moines suburb — attracted the most new residents, adding 7,684 (32.1% growth) between 2020 and 2023. Other nearby suburbs, including Ankeny and West Des Moines, also added 6,396 and 3,477 new residents, respectively.

Urbandale — a city south of Cedar Rapids — was the only area outside of the Des Moines metro to make our list, attracting 1,147 new residents (2.5% growth) within the same period.

The top five cities people moved to in Iowa between 2020 and 2023 were as follows:

Why do people move to Iowa?

Quality health care and education complimented by safe and affordable neighborhoods makes Iowa a lovely place to raise a family. Despite agreeable access to amenities, housing costs are over 45% below the national median — one of the cheapest in the nation. Finding such a safe location with so many benefits isn’t a common occurrence.

Employment opportunities are another factor driving movers to the Hawkeye State. The largest industries are trade, transportation, and utilities, education and health services, and government. Collectively, these industries employ over 51% of nonfarm workers. The fastest-growing industry in Iowa is leisure and hospitality, growing at a rate of 4.3% between July 2023 and July 2024.

Iowa housing statistics

With a median rent price of roughly $1,067 and a median home sale price of $229,800, Iowa renters and homeowners can expect to pay up to 45% less than the national median for housing.

However, at 1.52%, Iowa also has the 10th highest property taxes in the nation. The tax rate here is more than double that of 19 states, including California.

In 2021, the average property owner in Polk County — where Des Moines is located — paid $3,891 in annual property taxes. In general, the average property tax paid in the Hawkeye State is higher than in other states, but varies greatly by county. Residents in Dallas County paid the most ($4,380), while those in Adair County paid substantially less ($1,591).

Cost-of-living statistics in Iowa

Iowa’s cost-of-living index is 89.7, making it the sixth most affordable state in the nation. The median household income here is $70,908 — just slightly below the national average — but low median housing costs make this income more appealing. The unemployment rate of 2.8% is also far below the national average of 4.2%.

Following the same trend of affordability, the price per gallon of gas in the Hawkeye State ($3.15) is also 3.4% less than the national average of $3.26. Despite low gas prices, the state doesn’t sleep on green initiatives. Through impressive renewable energy generation from wind turbines, Iowa is the 13th most green state in the country.

For would-be movers, Iowa offers one of the most affordable housing markets and cost-of-living indexes in the country — all without sacrificing your annual salary.

Who lives in Iowa?

An estimated 3,207,004 people live in Iowa as of 2023, making it the 32nd largest state in terms of population. This represents a population increase of 7,311 people compared to 2022.

Iowa’s population is split nearly evenly male and female, with men accounting for about 50.1% of the population and women accounting for 49.9%. In 2023, around 1.6 million Iowa residents were male, and 1.59 million were female.

On average, Iowa’s population is also slightly older (39.4 years old) than the U.S. average of 38.9 years. The state has a high share of residents under 18 (22.8%), which is in line with its general appeal toward young families.

White residents account for the largest share of Iowans, approximating 89.6% of the population (2.69 million residents). This is followed by Hispanic and Black residents, who account for 7.4% and 4.5% of the population, respectively.

Tips for moving to Iowa

Not sure how to start your move to Iowa? Consider these step-by-step moving tips:

1. Understand the cost of living

Though Iowa has one of the lowest cost-of-living indexes in the U.S., expenses will still vary based on where you decide to relocate. Areas near popular urban hubs like Des Moines will likely have higher housing and utility costs, while more rural regions are exceptionally affordable. Before making the move, we recommend visiting the Iowa Department of Revenue website for helpful financial insights.

2. Explore the job market

With a diverse economy driven by education and health care as much as it is by agriculture and manufacturing, Iowa offers something for everyone. Major cities like Des Moines and Cedar Rapids offer niche professional roles, while small towns offer many practical opportunities that require little training. Future movers and job seekers can explore opportunities through the Iowa Workforce Development online job portal.

3. Prepare for harsh winters

The Great Plains allow cold, northern air to sweep over Iowa in the winter, causing temperatures to regularly drop below freezing. If you’re coming from a warmer state, we recommend investing in winter gear like jackets, boots and gloves. Homeowners should also prepare by stocking up on shovels, ice melt and emergency kits. You can stay updated on winter weather conditions through the National Weather Service website.

4. Be aware of natural hazards

While Iowans are safe from any typical hurricane, tornadoes and severe storms can both be a concern. Iowa’s central location causes warm and cold air to mix, leading to twisters, hail and other unwanted hazards. Tornado season peaks between April and June, so it's important to have an emergency plan in place. The Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management website offers resources to help you prepare.

5. Research transportation options

Though public transportation options are available in large cities like Des Moines and Cedar Rapids, the vast majority of Iowa is car-dependent. Large portions of the state are also sparsely populated and dedicated to agriculture, meaning you can drive for long stretches without spotting a gas station. Prepare by keeping an emergency kit in your car. The Iowa Department of Transportation website also provides road conditions and transportation updates.

6. Embrace the peaceful atmosphere

While Iowa’s rolling plains and rivers are far removed from the hustle and bustle of cities like Los Angeles, potential movers would be wise to embrace this peaceful atmosphere. However, that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do. Whether you enjoy hiking at Maquoketa Caves, fishing on the Mississippi River or spending a day in downtown Des Moines, there’s something for everyone.

7. Understand mover quotes and tipping

When moving to Iowa, carefully review and compare moving company quotes. Be sure to account for potential additional fees depending on where you’re relocating to. Tipping movers is customary; a tip of 10% to 20% of the total cost is standard based on the quality of service.