{"id":476743,"date":"2026-08-01T05:24:46","date_gmt":"2026-08-01T09:24:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/?p=476743"},"modified":"2026-08-01T05:24:57","modified_gmt":"2026-08-01T09:24:57","slug":"cheapest-places-to-live-in-iowa","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/cheapest-places-to-live-in-iowa\/","title":{"rendered":"10 Cheapest Places to Live in Iowa in 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"highlight\">Want Iowa\u2019s heartland lifestyle without Des Moines\u2019 high prices? Don\u2019t give up on the dream. You can afford a house in the Hawkeye State if you know where to look.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Your perfect home could be a family-friendly house in Keokuk or a&nbsp;starter home in Davenport, Iowa\u2019s fastest-growing tech hub. If you\u2019re retiring, look at&nbsp;homes for sale in Waterloo&nbsp;to enjoy a low-cost community lifestyle, with median home prices under $162,500.\u200b<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>After assessing hundreds of cities, we\u2019ve ranked the 10 most affordable places to live in Iowa to help you find a home that fits your budget<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-25\" id=\"cheapest-ia-cities\"><strong>Most Affordable Places to Live in Iowa<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n<div id=\"footable_parent_477681\"\n         class=\" footable_parent ninja_table_wrapper loading_ninja_table wp_table_data_press_parent semantic_ui \">\n                <table data-ninja_table_instance=\"ninja_table_instance_0\" data-footable_id=\"477681\" data-filter-delay=\"1000\" aria-label=\"Cheapest Cities in Iowa\"            id=\"footable_477681\"\n           data-unique_identifier=\"ninja_table_unique_id_1567555035_477681\"\n           class=\" foo-table ninja_footable foo_table_477681 ninja_table_unique_id_1567555035_477681 ui table  ninja_search_right nt_type_legacy_table selectable celled striped compact vertical_centered  footable-paging-center ninja_table_search_disabled ninja_table_pro\">\n                <colgroup>\n                            <col class=\"ninja_column_0 \">\n                            <col class=\"ninja_column_1 \">\n                            <col class=\"ninja_column_2 \">\n                            <col class=\"ninja_column_3 \">\n                    <\/colgroup>\n        <thead>\n<tr class=\"footable-header\">\n                                                                        <th scope=\"col\"  class=\"ninja_column_0 ninja_clmn_nm_city \">City<\/th><th scope=\"col\"  class=\"ninja_column_1 ninja_clmn_nm_average_household_income \">Median Home Price<\/th><th scope=\"col\"  class=\"ninja_column_2 ninja_clmn_nm_median_home_rent \">Median Home Rent<\/th><th scope=\"col\"  class=\"ninja_column_3 ninja_clmn_nm_affordability_score_out_of_10 \">Affordability Score (out of 10)<\/th><\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n\n        <tr data-row_id=\"16027\" class=\"ninja_table_row_0 nt_row_id_16027\">\n            <td>1. <a href=\"#fort-madison\">Fort Madison<\/a><\/td><td>$115,000<\/td><td>$576<\/td><td>8.3<\/td>        <\/tr>\n            <tr data-row_id=\"16030\" class=\"ninja_table_row_1 nt_row_id_16030\">\n            <td>2. <a href=\"#keokuk\">Keokuk<\/a><\/td><td>$125,000<\/td><td>$600<\/td><td>8.1<\/td>        <\/tr>\n            <tr data-row_id=\"16026\" class=\"ninja_table_row_2 nt_row_id_16026\">\n            <td>3. <a href=\"#oelwein\">Oelwein<\/a><\/td><td>$88,500<\/td><td>$800<\/td><td>8.0<\/td>        <\/tr>\n            <tr data-row_id=\"18070\" class=\"ninja_table_row_3 nt_row_id_18070\">\n            <td>4. <a href=\"#ottumwa\">Ottumwa<\/a><\/td><td>$88,000<\/td><td>995<\/td><td>7.3<\/td>        <\/tr>\n            <tr data-row_id=\"16032\" class=\"ninja_table_row_4 nt_row_id_16032\">\n            <td>5. <a href=\"#waterloo\">Waterloo<\/a><\/td><td>$162,500<\/td><td>810<\/td><td>7.0<\/td>        <\/tr>\n            <tr data-row_id=\"16031\" class=\"ninja_table_row_5 nt_row_id_16031\">\n            <td>6. <a href=\"#creston\">Creston<\/a><\/td><td>$165,000<\/td><td>$895<\/td><td>6.8<\/td>        <\/tr>\n            <tr data-row_id=\"16028\" class=\"ninja_table_row_6 nt_row_id_16028\">\n            <td>7. <a href=\"#burlington\">Burlington<\/a><\/td><td>$165,000<\/td><td>$900<\/td><td>6.7<\/td>        <\/tr>\n            <tr data-row_id=\"18068\" class=\"ninja_table_row_7 nt_row_id_18068\">\n            <td>8. <a href=\"#davenport\">Davenport<\/a><\/td><td>$200,000<\/td><td>$986<\/td><td>5.8<\/td>        <\/tr>\n            <tr data-row_id=\"18069\" class=\"ninja_table_row_8 nt_row_id_18069\">\n            <td>9. <a href=\"#dubuque\">Dubuque<\/a><\/td><td>$226,000<\/td><td>$1,050<\/td><td>5.1<\/td>        <\/tr>\n            <tr data-row_id=\"16029\" class=\"ninja_table_row_9 nt_row_id_16029\">\n            <td>10. <a href=\"#oskaloosa\">Oskaloosa<\/a><\/td><td>$255,000<\/td><td>$1.195<\/td><td>4.2<\/td>        <\/tr>\n    <\/tbody><!--ninja_tobody_rendering_done-->\n    <\/table>\n    \n    \n    \n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-25\" id=\"iowa-living-cost\"><strong>How We Ranked the Most Affordable Places to Live in Iowa<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>To identify the cheap places to live in Iowa, we carried out an in-depth analysis using multiple reliable data sources and indicators of affordability.\u200b<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-15\" id=\"how-much-does-it-cost-to-live-in-iowa\"><strong>Data Sources<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Median Home Prices:<\/strong>&nbsp;We used Houzeo\u2019s&nbsp;<a         rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/housing-market\/iowa\">Iowa Housing Market<\/a>&nbsp;report and double-checked the numbers with Iowa state economic data and local housing studies.\u200b<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Median Rent:<\/strong>&nbsp;We got the rent data from&nbsp;<a         href=\"https:\/\/www.c2er.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">C2ER<\/a>, which publishes the national Cost of Living Index. This was verified every few months to make sure it\u2019s accurate.\u200b<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Overall Cost of Living:<\/strong>\u00a0We covered 6 big spending categories\u2014housing, groceries, utilities, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous goods\u2014from C2ER. We then compared everything to the U.S. average of 100.\u200b<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>We studied housing data from 2022 to 2026 to identify cities that remained affordable over time, not just during short dips in prices. Furthermore, each city\u2019s data was also cross-checked with HUD and state economic reports.\u200b<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>All our information is up to date as of 2026, ensuring you receive the most current insights.\u200b<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-15\" id=\"what-is-the-cost-of-living-in-iowa\"><strong>Affordability Scoring<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>We built a simple scoring system that focuses on what really matters:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Median Home Price (40%)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Median Rent (35%)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cost of Living (25%)<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>This way, we can clearly show which Iowa cities give you the best value for your money. You can also check out our&nbsp;<a         href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/cptl-algorithm-iowa.pdf\">score breakdown<\/a>&nbsp;to see how each city was ranked.\u200b<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Image credits: All blog images are sourced from&nbsp;<a         rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.freepik.com\/\">Freepik<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-28\" id=\"iowa-affordable-cities-list\"><strong>10<\/strong> <strong>Cheapest Places to Live in Iowa<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"fort-madison\" class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"houzoTabBlock houzoTabBlockBPTLCPTL\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoToptab\"><div class=\"houzeoTabBlockTopRow houzeoTabBlockTopRowBPTLCPTL\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"left_col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"city_rank\">#1<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"city_name\">Fort Madison<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"city_rating_list\"><ul>\r\n \t<li><strong>Median Home Price:<\/strong> $115,000<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>Median Home Rent:<\/strong> $576<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>Cost of Living:<\/strong> 7% \u2b07\ufe0f than the state average<\/li>\r\n<\/ul><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"right_col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/fortmadi.png\" alt=\"Cheapest places to live in Fort Madison, Iowa\" class=\"city_image\" \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTopright\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTopRightIn\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ratingStarSingle fiveStar\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"houzeoLogoRightCount\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<abbr class=\"fiveStar\">8.3<\/abbr>\/10\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"houzeoRightRatingBox\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoBottomTab\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabLabelWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabLabelInnerWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel active\">\ud83d\udca1 Our Take<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel\">\ud83d\udccd Neighborhoods<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel\">\ud83c\udf89 Jobs &amp; Fun<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel \">\ud83d\udea9 Dealbreakers<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabContentWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent houzeofirstDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><p>Fort Madison is the cheapest city in Iowa along the Mississippi, rooted in Old Fort\u2019s history and complemented by the open green spaces of Santa Fe Lake Park. Riverfront paths connect homes to recreation. Families consider homes for sale in Fort Madison for their Tri-State Rodeo traditions and trails.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Park-to-Park Residential Historic District:<\/strong> Victorian-era residential area with Gothic and Queen Anne homes spanning seven blocks. Buyers choose it for adjacency to two city parks and historic walks.\u200b<\/li>\n<li><strong>Fort Madison Downtown Commercial Historic District:<\/strong> Compact commercial-residential mix of 19th-century storefronts on Ave. G. Attracts residents for cafes, boutiques, and Tri-State Rodeo proximity.\u200b<\/li>\n<li><strong>Hillview Village:<\/strong> Ground-level senior apartments with patios in a calm housing authority complex. Favored by retirees for included utilities and laundry near medical services.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Job Market:<\/strong> Fort Madison anchors rail manufacturing and energy sectors, with commuters to Burlington or Mount Pleasant. The local economy centers on industrial production, healthcare, and education. Major employers include Siemens Energy, Great River Medical Center, and Fort Madison Community Schools.<\/li>\n<li><strong>\u200bRecreation:<\/strong> Santa Fe Lake Park covers 135 acres with fishing piers, boat launches, and 3-mile perimeter trails. Tri-State Rodeo arena hosts nightly competitions during July festival week near Old Fort Madison&#8217;s living history encampments.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent houzeoLastDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Industrial Job Reliance and Less Diversity:<\/strong> Siemens Energy employs 800+, but layoffs impact 15% of the workforce during rail slowdowns; diversification lags.<\/li>\n<li><strong>\u200bRiver Flood Threat:<\/strong> Mississippi positioning yields 28% flood risk per FEMA maps, with 2023 evacuations affecting Santa Fe Lake Park access.<\/li>\n<li><strong>\u200bLimited Dining Variety:<\/strong> Beyond rodeo season, restaurant options center on chain steakhouses; gourmet cuisine requires Burlington drives.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"keokuk\" class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"houzoTabBlock houzoTabBlockBPTLCPTL\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoToptab\"><div class=\"houzeoTabBlockTopRow houzeoTabBlockTopRowBPTLCPTL\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"left_col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"city_rank\">#2<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"city_name\">Keokuk<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"city_rating_list\"><ul>\r\n \t<li><strong>Median Home Price:<\/strong> $125,000<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>Median Home Rent:<\/strong> $600<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>Cost of Living:<\/strong> 5% \u2b07\ufe0f than the state average<\/li>\r\n<\/ul><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"right_col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/keokuk-300x300-1.webp\" alt=\"Cheapest places to live in Keokuk, Iowa\" class=\"city_image\" \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTopright\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTopRightIn\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ratingStarSingle fiveStar\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"houzeoLogoRightCount\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<abbr class=\"fiveStar\">8.1<\/abbr>\/10\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"houzeoRightRatingBox\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoBottomTab\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabLabelWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabLabelInnerWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel active\">\ud83d\udca1 Our Take<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel\">\ud83d\udccd Neighborhoods<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel\">\ud83c\udf89 Jobs &amp; Fun<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel \">\ud83d\udea9 Dealbreakers<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabContentWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent houzeofirstDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><p>Keokuk ranks among cheapest places to rent in Iowa, offering Mississippi River access and historic lock-and-dam views that define its relaxed lifestyle. Residents\u00a0 can access Riverview Park trails and downtown amenities. Those exploring homes for sale in Keokuk find options near essential services and community events.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Chief Keokuk Neighborhood:<\/strong> Quiet residential area with historic homes near the Mississippi River bluffs. Appeals to buyers for walkability to Riverview Park trails and downtown shops on Main Street.\u200b<\/li>\n<li><strong>Grand Avenue District:<\/strong> Established urban enclave featuring charming older houses and tree-lined streets. Buyers favor its proximity to Lock and Dam No. 19 views and local library access.\u200b<\/li>\n<li><strong>South End:<\/strong> Suburban pocket with single-family homes away from downtown noise. Attracts families due to quick drives to Keokuk High School and community parks.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Job Market:<\/strong> Keokuk serves as a regional hub, with commuters heading to Quincy, IL, for jobs. The economy centers on medical services, tool &amp; die fabrication, education, and county government. Major employers include Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center, Keokuk Schools, and Lee County offices.<\/li>\n<li><strong>\u200bRecreation:<\/strong> Riverview Park offers 1.5 miles of paved trails, picnic shelters, and overlooks of Lock and Dam No. 19 operations. Summer concerts fill River City Plaza with live music, while the Chief Keokuk statue trail connects to boat ramps and fishing spots downtown.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent houzeoLastDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>High Crime Rate:<\/strong> Keokuk experiences elevated property crime rates above Iowa averages, particularly theft along riverfront areas. NeighborhoodScout data flags 1 in 72 property crime victimization risk.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Limited Job Diversity:<\/strong> Beyond healthcare at Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center, professionals commute to Quincy, IL for advanced manufacturing; retail dominates local employment.<\/li>\n<li><strong>\u200bHigh Flood Risk:<\/strong> Mississippi River location carries high flood risk during spring thaws. FEMA rates 22% of properties in flood zones, elevating insurance premiums.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"oelwein\" class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"houzoTabBlock houzoTabBlockBPTLCPTL\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoToptab\"><div class=\"houzeoTabBlockTopRow houzeoTabBlockTopRowBPTLCPTL\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"left_col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"city_rank\">#3<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"city_name\">Oelwein<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"city_rating_list\"><ul>\r\n \t<li><strong>Median Home Price:<\/strong> $88,500<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>Median Home Rent:<\/strong> $800<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>Cost of Living:<\/strong> 18% \u2b07\ufe0f than the state average<\/li>\r\n<\/ul><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"right_col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/oelwein-150x150-1.webp\" alt=\"Cheapest places to live in Oelwein, Iowa\" class=\"city_image\" \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTopright\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTopRightIn\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ratingStarSingle fiveStar\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"houzeoLogoRightCount\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<abbr class=\"fiveStar\">8.0<\/abbr>\/10\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"houzeoRightRatingBox\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoBottomTab\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabLabelWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabLabelInnerWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel active\">\ud83d\udca1 Our Take<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel\">\ud83d\udccd Neighborhoods<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel\">\ud83c\udf89 Jobs &amp; Fun<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel \">\ud83d\udea9 Dealbreakers<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabContentWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent houzeofirstDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><p>Oelwein stands out as one of Iowa&#8217;s most affordable spots, blending railroad heritage with walkable streets and Memorial Park recreation. Daily life centers on community events and easy neighborhood access. Homes for sale in Oelwein suit those seeking proximity to local schools and annual festivals.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>City Center:<\/strong> Dense urban core with storefronts and apartments above shops. Buyers seek it for steps to Ampersand Taproom and Oelwein Public Library events.\u200b<\/li>\n<li><strong>Oelwein North:<\/strong> Residential suburban zone with ranch-style homes and yards. Popular for nearness to Memorial Park playgrounds and elementary schools.\u200b<\/li>\n<li><strong>Downtown Oelwein:<\/strong> Walkable historic district with renovated buildings near rail museum. Appeals to those wanting easy access to farmers markets and wellness centers.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Job Market:<\/strong> Oelwein functions as a manufacturing and rail service center, with some commuting to Waterloo-Cedar Falls. The local economy focuses on HVAC production, education, healthcare, and county services. Major employers include Lennox Industries, Oelwein Community Schools, and Fayette Medical Center.<\/li>\n<li><strong>\u200bRecreation:<\/strong> Memorial Park spans 20 acres with lit ball fields, playground equipment, and splash pad. The annual Railroad Festival features vintage train rides, depot museum tours, and downtown street vendors along Frederick Avenue.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent houzeoLastDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Elevated Crime Concerns:<\/strong> Oelwein reports property crime 45% above state norms, concentrated near downtown bars and rail yards.<\/li>\n<li><strong>\u200bJob Market Constraints:<\/strong> Lennox Industries anchors manufacturing, but white-collar roles require 40-mile commutes to Waterloo; unemployment lingers at 5.2%.<\/li>\n<li><strong>\u200bWinter Isolation:<\/strong> Harsh Northeast Iowa winters limit outdoor access 5 months yearly, straining small-town entertainment options.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ottumwa\" class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"houzoTabBlock houzoTabBlockBPTLCPTL\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoToptab\"><div class=\"houzeoTabBlockTopRow houzeoTabBlockTopRowBPTLCPTL\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"left_col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"city_rank\">#4<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"city_name\">Ottumwa<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"city_rating_list\"><ul>\r\n \t<li><strong>Median Home Price:<\/strong> $88,000<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>Median Home Rent:<\/strong> $995<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>Cost of Living:<\/strong> 9% \u2b07\ufe0f than the state average<\/li>\r\n<\/ul><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"right_col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/ottumwa-300x300-1.webp\" alt=\"Cheapest places to live in Ottumwa, Iowa\" class=\"city_image\" \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTopright\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTopRightIn\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ratingStarSingle fiveStar\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"houzeoLogoRightCount\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<abbr class=\"fiveStar\">7.3<\/abbr>\/10\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"houzeoRightRatingBox\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoBottomTab\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabLabelWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabLabelInnerWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel active\">\ud83d\udca1 Our Take<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel\">\ud83d\udccd Neighborhoods<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel\">\ud83c\udf89 Jobs &amp; Fun<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel \">\ud83d\udea9 Dealbreakers<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabContentWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent houzeofirstDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><p>Ottumwa offers Des Moines River access and historic downtown districts that shape its community lifestyle. Residents enjoy Wildwood Park trails and local markets with easy walking access to daily essentials. Those exploring cheap houses in Iowa find practical options near cultural venues in this city.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Phillips Neighborhood:<\/strong> Working-class residential area north of downtown with modest homes from early 20th-century coal mining era. Appeals to buyers for short walks to Ottumwa Park playgrounds and Ottumwa High School.\u200b<\/li>\n<li><strong>Rutledge Neighborhood:<\/strong> Established ethnic enclave just north of Phillips with diverse families and bungalows. Buyers like its proximity to Court Street amenities and Des Moines River trails.\u200b<\/li>\n<li><strong>East Ottumwa:<\/strong> Quiet suburban zone east of the river with ranch homes and yards. Attracts families for access to Wildwood Park disc golf and Ottumwa YMCA.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Job Market:<\/strong> Ottumwa functions as a regional food processing and manufacturing center. The local economy centers on meatpacking, healthcare, education, and government services. Major employers include JBS Live Pork, Ottumwa Regional Health Center, Indian Hills Community College etc.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Recreation:<\/strong> Wildwood Park features 2-mile disc golf courses and Des Moines River trails with boat access. Ottumwa Park offers playgrounds and historical markers, while the annual Soap Box Derby races fill downtown streets each summer.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent houzeoLastDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>High Crime Rate:<\/strong> Ottumwa reports elevated violent and property crime rates 91.5% above national averages, with 1 in 129 residents facing violent crime risk. Research neighborhoods carefully before moving.<\/li>\n<li><strong>\u200bLimited Job Diversity:<\/strong> Outside food processing at JBS and healthcare, professionals commute 75 miles to Des Moines for tech or specialized roles; many residents rely on single-industry employment.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Flood Risk:<\/strong> Des Moines River position yields moderate flood risk during heavy rains. FEMA maps show 15% of properties vulnerable, potentially raising insurance costs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"waterloo\" class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"houzoTabBlock houzoTabBlockBPTLCPTL\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoToptab\"><div class=\"houzeoTabBlockTopRow houzeoTabBlockTopRowBPTLCPTL\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"left_col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"city_rank\">#5<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"city_name\">Waterloo<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"city_rating_list\"><ul>\r\n \t<li><strong>Median Home Price:<\/strong> $162,500<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>Median Home Rent:<\/strong> $810<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>Cost of Living:<\/strong> 6% \u2b07\ufe0f than the state average<\/li>\r\n<\/ul><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"right_col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/waterloo-300x219-1.webp\" alt=\"Cheapest places to live in Waterloo, Iowa\" class=\"city_image\" \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTopright\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTopRightIn\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ratingStarSingle fiveStar\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"houzeoLogoRightCount\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<abbr class=\"fiveStar\">7.0<\/abbr>\/10\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"houzeoRightRatingBox\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoBottomTab\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabLabelWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabLabelInnerWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel active\">\ud83d\udca1 Our Take<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel\">\ud83d\udccd Neighborhoods<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel\">\ud83c\udf89 Jobs &amp; Fun<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel \">\ud83d\udea9 Dealbreakers<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabContentWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent houzeofirstDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><p>Waterloo combines budget living with Lost Island Adventure Park water fun and urban trail networks for family outings. Irv Warren Memorial Park playgrounds support accessible recreation amid growing job hubs. Cheap houses for sale in Iowa provide practical access to manufacturing and healthcare employment.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Cedar Falls:<\/strong> Vibrant suburban extension west of Waterloo featuring university-adjacent homes and parks. Appeals to buyers for top-rated schools and downtown Overman Park access.\u200b<\/li>\n<li><strong>Audubon Park:<\/strong> Quaint residential neighborhood with tree-lined streets and family homes in central Waterloo. Buyers favor its nearness to shopping districts and green spaces.\u200b<\/li>\n<li><strong>Greenbrier:<\/strong> Family-friendly northwest suburb with maintained homes and playgrounds. Popular for quick drives to top schools and Lost Island Adventure Park.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent houzeoLastDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Urban Crime Pockets:<\/strong> Central Waterloo posts 1 in 48 property crime risk, elevated near Lost Island park entrances.<\/li>\n<li><strong>\u200bManufacturing Volatility:<\/strong> John Deere cuts affected 800+ workers during 2025 slowdowns; diversification to tech lags.<\/li>\n<li><strong>\u200bTraffic Congestion:<\/strong> Hwy 218 expansion delays create 20-minute backups during peak hours to the Waterloo-Cedar Falls corridor.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"creston\" class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"houzoTabBlock houzoTabBlockBPTLCPTL\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoToptab\"><div class=\"houzeoTabBlockTopRow houzeoTabBlockTopRowBPTLCPTL\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"left_col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"city_rank\">#6<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"city_name\">Creston<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"city_rating_list\"><ul>\r\n \t<li><strong>Median Home Price:<\/strong> $165,000<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>Median Home Rent:<\/strong> $895<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>Cost of Living:<\/strong> 12% \u2b07\ufe0f than the state average<\/li>\r\n<\/ul><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"right_col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/creston-300x200-1.webp\" alt=\"Cheapest places to live in Creston, Iowa\" class=\"city_image\" \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTopright\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTopRightIn\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ratingStarSingle fiveStar\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"houzeoLogoRightCount\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<abbr class=\"fiveStar\">6.8<\/abbr>\/10\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"houzeoRightRatingBox\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoBottomTab\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabLabelWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabLabelInnerWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel active\">\ud83d\udca1 Our Take<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel\">\ud83d\udccd Neighborhoods<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel\">\ud83c\udf89 Jobs &amp; Fun<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel \">\ud83d\udea9 Dealbreakers<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabContentWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent houzeofirstDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><p>Creston delivers affordable southern Iowa residency centered on McKinley Park trails and public gathering spaces. Central location enables regional travel while preserving quiet, walkable daily access. Cheap homes for sale in Iowa (Creston) appeal to families near youth sports fields and summer Gran Prix events.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Downtown Creston:<\/strong> Compact urban core with shops, murals, and C.B. &amp; Q. Depot. Buyers value walkability to Creston Arts Gallery and farmers markets.\u200b<\/li>\n<li><strong>McKinley Park Area:<\/strong> Suburban residential near trails and public spaces. Appeals for family proximity to playgrounds and Southwestern Community College.\u200b<\/li>\n<li><strong>Union County East:<\/strong> Established neighborhood with homes east of downtown. Popular for quick access to Greater Community Hospital and Gran Prix race routes.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Job Market:<\/strong> Creston supports southwest Iowa with healthcare, retail, supplemented by Des Moines commuters. The local economy focuses on medical services, public education, and county operations. Major employers include Greater Community Hospital, and Union County administrative offices.<\/li>\n<li><strong>\u200bRecreation:<\/strong> McKinley Park includes swimming pools, tennis courts, and picnic pavilions across 30 acres. The Gran Prix features downtown street races with classic cars circling the courthouse square each July.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent houzeoLastDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Lack of Employment Diversity:<\/strong> Greater Community Hospital dominates with 450 jobs; retail\/service roles face 4.8% unemployment vs. state 3.2%.<\/li>\n<li><strong>\u200bSevere Weather Exposure:<\/strong> Southwest Iowa tornado alley positioning yields 12 confirmed touchdowns since 1950 per NOAA records.<\/li>\n<li><strong>\u200bRegional Shopping Gaps:<\/strong> Beyond Hy-Vee and Walmart, specialty retail requires 55-mile Des Moines trips.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"burlington\" class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"houzoTabBlock houzoTabBlockBPTLCPTL\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoToptab\"><div class=\"houzeoTabBlockTopRow houzeoTabBlockTopRowBPTLCPTL\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"left_col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"city_rank\">#7<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"city_name\">Burlington<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"city_rating_list\"><ul>\r\n \t<li><strong>Median Home Price:<\/strong> $165,000<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>Median Home Rent:<\/strong> $900<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>Cost of Living:<\/strong> 7% \u2b07\ufe0f than the state average<\/li>\r\n<\/ul><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"right_col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/burlington-300x300-1.webp\" alt=\"Cheapest places to live in Burlington, Iowa\" class=\"city_image\" \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTopright\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTopRightIn\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ratingStarSingle fiveStar\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"houzeoLogoRightCount\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<abbr class=\"fiveStar\">6.7<\/abbr>\/10\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"houzeoRightRatingBox\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoBottomTab\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabLabelWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabLabelInnerWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel active\">\ud83d\udca1 Our Take<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel\">\ud83d\udccd Neighborhoods<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel\">\ud83c\udf89 Jobs &amp; Fun<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel \">\ud83d\udea9 Dealbreakers<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabContentWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent houzeofirstDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><p>Burlington offers low-cost Iowa living with river bluffs, Snake Alley, and Crapo Park, enhancing accessible outdoor pursuits. Neighborhoods link cultural museums to daily walks, fostering community without city bustle. Homes for sale in Burlington attract those valuing historic charm and scenic recreation.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Old North End:<\/strong> Lower-income residential area north of Pearl Street with immigrant families and artists. Appeals to buyers for walkability to downtown bars, restaurants, and Snake Alley views.\u200b<\/li>\n<li><strong>New North End:<\/strong> Family-oriented suburban zone with newer homes and yards. Buyers prefer its quiet vibe, bike path access, and proximity to elementary schools.\u200b<\/li>\n<li><strong>Five Sisters:<\/strong> Quiet residential pocket in the South End with single-family homes. Attracts families for safe streets and short drives to Crapo Park trails.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Job Market:<\/strong> Burlington operates as a Mississippi River logistics and manufacturing center. The local economy centers on healthcare, convenience retail, and industrial production. Major employers include Great River Medical Center, Casey&#8217;s General Stores HQ, and Southeast Iowa Regional Airport operations.<\/li>\n<li><strong>\u200bRecreation:<\/strong> Crapo Park covers 80 acres with formal gardens, lagoons, and 2-mile trail loops for walking. Snake Alley features the world&#8217;s crookedest street with 21-degree switchbacks drawing visitors alongside MacArthur Bridge river views.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent houzeoLastDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>High Crime in Core Areas:<\/strong> Downtown reports 1 in 85 violent crime risk per NeighborhoodScout, concentrated near bars and MacArthur Bridge.<\/li>\n<li><strong>\u200bDependency on Surrounding Areas:<\/strong> Casey&#8217;s HQ provides corporate jobs, but 25% workforce commutes to Mount Pleasant for healthcare specialties.<\/li>\n<li><strong>\u200bFlood-Prone Neighbourhoods:<\/strong> Crapo Park trails close during Mississippi floods, averaging every 3 years, limiting recreation access.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"davenport\" class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"houzoTabBlock houzoTabBlockBPTLCPTL\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoToptab\"><div class=\"houzeoTabBlockTopRow houzeoTabBlockTopRowBPTLCPTL\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"left_col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"city_rank\">#8<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"city_name\">Davenport<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"city_rating_list\"><ul>\r\n \t<li><strong>Median Home Price:<\/strong> $200,000<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>Median Home Rent:<\/strong> $986<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>Cost of Living:<\/strong> 3% \u2b07\ufe0f than the state average<\/li>\r\n<\/ul><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"right_col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/davenport-265x300-1.webp\" alt=\"Cheapest places to live in Davenport, Iowa\" class=\"city_image\" \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTopright\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTopRightIn\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ratingStarSingle fiveStar\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"houzeoLogoRightCount\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<abbr class=\"fiveStar\">5.8<\/abbr>\/10\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"houzeoRightRatingBox\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoBottomTab\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabLabelWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabLabelInnerWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel active\">\ud83d\udca1 Our Take<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel\">\ud83d\udccd Neighborhoods<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel\">\ud83c\udf89 Jobs &amp; Fun<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel \">\ud83d\udea9 Dealbreakers<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabContentWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent houzeofirstDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><p>Davenport offers economical Quad Cities living along the Mississippi, with riverfront paths and Palmer College amenities nearby. Figge Art Museum and neighborhood parks integrate culture into everyday accessibility. Homes for sale in Davenport suit buyers seeking vibrant yet affordable river communities.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>East Davenport:<\/strong> Historic residential area with Victorian homes east of the Mississippi River. Appeals to buyers for proximity to McClellan Heights Park and Vander Veer Botanical Park trails.\u200b<\/li>\n<li><strong>Village of East Davenport:<\/strong> Charming commercial-residential strip with boutiques and single-family homes. Buyers value walkability to Duck Creek Parkway and neighborhood festivals.\u200b<\/li>\n<li><strong>North of 53rd Street:<\/strong> Quiet suburban enclave with ranch homes north of major highways. Attracts families for quick access to Walcott Elementary and Credit Island trails.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Job Market:<\/strong> Davenport leads Quad Cities logistics and healthcare along the Mississippi River. The local economy centers on distribution centers, hospitals, and chiropractic education. Major employers include UnityPoint Health-Trinity, Amazon fulfillment center, and Palmer College of Chiropractic.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Recreation:<\/strong> Credit Island spans 390 wooded acres with 4-mile biking trails and equestrian paths. Figge Art Museum houses 11,000 works while riverfront paths connect to Modern Woodmen Park stadium.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent houzeoLastDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Riverfront Theft Issues:<\/strong> Quad Cities reports 38% higher property crime than the Iowa average, concentrated near Credit Island trails.<\/li>\n<li><strong>\u200bLogistics Job Cyclicality:<\/strong> Amazon\/UnityPoint employs thousands, but seasonal layoffs impact 12% of the warehouse workforce annually.<\/li>\n<li><strong>\u200bIllinois Tax Commuting:<\/strong> Illinois-side workers face 4.95% state income tax, complicating Quad Cities residency decisions.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"dubuque\" class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"houzoTabBlock houzoTabBlockBPTLCPTL\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoToptab\"><div class=\"houzeoTabBlockTopRow houzeoTabBlockTopRowBPTLCPTL\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"left_col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"city_rank\">#9<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"city_name\">Dubuque<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"city_rating_list\"><ul>\r\n \t<li><strong>Median Home Price:<\/strong> $226,000<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>Median Home Rent:<\/strong> $1,050<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>Cost of Living:<\/strong> 3% \u2b07\ufe0f than the state average<\/li>\r\n<\/ul><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"right_col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/dubuq-300x300-1.webp\" alt=\"Cheapest places to live in Dubuque, Iowa\" class=\"city_image\" \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTopright\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTopRightIn\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ratingStarSingle fiveStar\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"houzeoLogoRightCount\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<abbr class=\"fiveStar\">5.1<\/abbr>\/10\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"houzeoRightRatingBox\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoBottomTab\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabLabelWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabLabelInnerWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel active\">\ud83d\udca1 Our Take<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel\">\ud83d\udccd Neighborhoods<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel\">\ud83c\udf89 Jobs &amp; Fun<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel \">\ud83d\udea9 Dealbreakers<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabContentWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent houzeofirstDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><p>Dubuque provides value-driven living with bluffs, river trails, and historic Millwork District walkability. Eagle Point Park overlooks connect recreation to residential areas without long commutes. Homes for sale in Dubuque draw those enjoying German heritage festivals and waterfront access.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Millwork District:<\/strong> Revitalized historic warehouse zone with loft apartments near the riverfront. Appeals to buyers for walkability to Fenelon Place Elevator and brewery district.\u200b<\/li>\n<li><strong>North End:<\/strong> Established residential area with bungalows and family homes. Buyers seek proximity to Dubuque Golf &amp; Country Club and Washington Park.\u200b<\/li>\n<li><strong>West Dubuque:<\/strong> Sprawling suburban sector with newer developments off Highway 20. Popular for access to Clarke University and Eagle Point Park scenic overlooks.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Job Market:<\/strong> Dubuque blends manufacturing, tourism, and healthcare across three-state region. The local economy focuses on heavy equipment production, medical services, and public schools. Major employers include John Deere Dubuque Works, MercyOne Dubuque, and Dubuque Community Schools.<\/li>\n<li><strong>\u200bRecreation:<\/strong> Eagle Point Park rises 400 feet above river valleys with picnic shelters and overlooks. Millwork District breweries line cobblestone streets near Fenelon Place Elevator&#8217;s cable car tracks.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent houzeoLastDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Winter Icing Problem:<\/strong> Steep Eagle Point roads ice 60+ days yearly, requiring 4WD vehicles for bluff access.<\/li>\n<li><strong>\u200bTourism Job Seasonality:<\/strong> 35% hospitality roles seasonal; off-season unemployment spikes to 6.1%.<\/li>\n<li><strong>\u200bThree-State Commute Complexity:<\/strong> Wisconsin\/Illinois workers navigate varying tax codes and licensing requirements.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"oskaloosa\" class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"houzoTabBlock houzoTabBlockBPTLCPTL\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoToptab\"><div class=\"houzeoTabBlockTopRow houzeoTabBlockTopRowBPTLCPTL\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"left_col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"city_rank\">#10<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"city_name\">Oskaloosa<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"city_rating_list\"><ul>\r\n \t<li><strong>Median Home Price:<\/strong> $255,000<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>Median Home Rent:<\/strong> $1,195<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>Cost of Living:<\/strong> Same as the state average<\/li>\r\n<\/ul><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"right_col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/oskaloosa-300x300-1.webp\" alt=\"Cheapest places to live in Oskaloosa, Iowa\" class=\"city_image\" \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTopright\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTopRightIn\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ratingStarSingle fiveStar\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"houzeoLogoRightCount\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<abbr class=\"fiveStar\">4.2<\/abbr>\/10\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"houzeoRightRatingBox\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoBottomTab\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabLabelWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabLabelInnerWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel active\">\ud83d\udca1 Our Take<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel\">\ud83d\udccd Neighborhoods<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel\">\ud83c\udf89 Jobs &amp; Fun<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel \">\ud83d\udea9 Dealbreakers<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabContentWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent houzeofirstDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><p>Oskaloosa stands as an affordable central Iowa hub, featuring Edmundson Park trails and community college proximity. Lace up for Lacy Park walks or local events that enhance small-town daily rhythms. Homes for sale in Oskaloosa fit education and healthcare professionals seeking balanced lifestyles.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><p><strong>College Hill:<\/strong> Quiet residential hilltop area near William Penn University campus. Appeals to buyers for tree-lined streets and Oskaloosa Art Center proximity.\u200b<\/p>\n<p><strong>Downtown Oskaloosa:<\/strong> Compact urban core with historic homes around the square. Buyers favor short walks to Lacy Park and farmers market pavilions.\u200b<\/p>\n<p><strong>North Osky:<\/strong> Family-oriented suburban zone north of the highway with yards. Attracts residents for Southwestern Community College access and youth sports complexes.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Job Market:<\/strong> Oskaloosa anchors central Iowa education and healthcare amid farm belt economy. The local economy centers on university staff, medical services, and public schools. Major employers include Mahaska Health, William Penn University, and Oskaloosa Community Schools.<\/li>\n<li><strong>\u200bRecreation:<\/strong> Edmundson Park offers 1.5-mile lake trails and disc golf across 50 acres. Lacy Park hosts weekend farmers markets beside downtown summer bandstand concerts.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent houzeoLastDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Ag Economy Volatility:<\/strong> Farm belt positioning ties 28% jobs to commodity cycles; ethanol plant cuts hit 200+ in 2025.<\/li>\n<li><strong>\u200bLimited Nightlife:<\/strong> Beyond college sports, entertainment centers on 3 bars and summer band concerts.<\/li>\n<li><strong>\u200bTornado Exposure:<\/strong> Central Iowa funnel clouds average 8 sightings yearly per NWS; basements essential.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-houzeo-pro-tip-box wp-block-houzeo-grey-text blue-box-content-list pro-tip-blue-box\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"840px\" height=\"450px\" src=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/pro-tip-icon.png\" alt=\"pro tip icon\" class=\"pro-tip-icon\"\/><p class=\"pro-tip-text\"><strong>Pro Tip<\/strong> <span>If you&#8217;re looking for something near Iowa&#8217;s urban hub, Des Moines could be a great option. From East Village to Urbandale, you&#8217;ll find a wide range of&nbsp;<a         href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/homes-for-sale\/iowa\/des-moines\/cheap-homes-for-sale\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">affordable houses in Des Moines<\/a>&nbsp;with strong rental potential.<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-custom-accordion custom-accordion\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-custom-accordion-item accordion-item\"><button class=\"accordion-header\"><span class=\"accordion-title\">What is the cheapest and safest place to live in Iowa?<\/span><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"840px\" height=\"450px\" class=\"accordion-icon\" src=\"https:\/\/dtpwvruv8ddnl.cloudfront.net\/images\/flat-fee-mls\/faqArrow.svg\" alt=\"toggle\"\/><\/button><div class=\"accordion-content\">\n<p>Sioux Center and Orange City are the cheapest and&nbsp;safest cities in Iowa. They offer low crime rates, family-friendly neighborhoods, and a lively, welcoming lifestyle.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-25\" id=\"iowa-affordable-towns-list\"><strong>Top 3 Cheapest Cities to Live in Iowa for Young Adults<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When looking for the least expensive city to live in Iowa, you want more than just cheap rent. You want good jobs, a fun lifestyle, and a city where you can thrive. These Iowa&#8217;s most affordable towns deliver all three, with cheap houses in Iowa and growing job markets.\u200b<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><thead><tr><th>Rank<\/th><th>City<\/th><th>Why It&#8217;s Great for Young Adults<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>1.<\/td><td><strong>Waterloo <\/strong><\/td><td>Waterloo offers big-city opportunities in manufacturing, healthcare, and growing tech at companies like John Deere and MercyOne. Young professionals connect via groups like Young Professionals of Waterloo-Cedar Falls. Strong job growth and starter homes around $162,500 make building wealth easier.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>2.<\/td><td><strong>Davenport <\/strong><\/td><td>Home to Palmer College of Chiropractic and a logistics\/biotech scene, Davenport blends research gigs with a vibrant riverfront vibe. Rentals run 19% below state averages, plus&nbsp;<a         href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/homes-for-sale\/iowa\/davenport\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">homes for sale in Davenport<\/a>&nbsp;offer entry-level buys under $200,000.\u200b<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>3.<\/td><td><strong>Dubuque <\/strong><\/td><td>Dubuque\u2019s expanding logistics, healthcare, and tech sectors create career paths, while the Dubuque Area Chamber\u2019s young professional network boosts connections. Affordable&nbsp;<a         href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/homes-for-sale\/iowa\/dubuque\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">houses for sale in Dubuque<\/a>&nbsp;ensure you don\u2019t spend all your hard-earned money on housing.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-25\" id=\"iowa-most-affordable-cities\"><strong>Top 3 Inexpensive Places to Live in Iowa for Families<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Iowa is a favorite among families for its low property taxes, quality schools, and safe neighborhoods. These three most affordable towns in Iowa offer low living costs, cheap houses for sale in Iowa and top-notch schools.\u200b<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><thead><tr><th>Rank<\/th><th>City<\/th><th>Why It&#8217;s Great for Young Adults<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>1.<\/td><td><strong>Keokuk <\/strong><\/td><td>Families enjoy natural river spots like Riverview Park and educational spots such as the Keokuk Public Library. Outdoor recreation and pocket-friendly&nbsp;homes for sale in Keokuk&nbsp;make this city a great place for families.\u200b<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>2.<\/td><td><strong>Fort Madison<\/strong><\/td><td>Fort Madison offers free programs like free Pre-K and vaccinations on the first Fridays of the month. This significantly reduces child-rearing costs. Similar social programs and cheap&nbsp;homes for sale in Fort Madison&nbsp;make this city family-friendly.\u200b<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>3.<\/td><td><strong>Oelwein <\/strong><\/td><td>Home to family recreation centers like Oelwein Memorial Park, families enjoy year-round entertainment. If you\u2019re looking for community playgrounds and youth sports fields, cheap&nbsp;homes for sale in Oelwein&nbsp;are your best bet.\u200b<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-25\" id=\"best-places-to-retire-on-a-budget\"><strong>3 Best Affordable Places to Live in Iowa for Retirees<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Iowa is a retiree\u2019s haven. In these most affordable cities in Iowa, you can find cheap homes for sale in Iowa, accessible healthcare, and safe communities. There are also plenty of outdoor activities like kayaking, hiking, and picnics to enjoy a comfortable, active lifestyle.\u200b<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><thead><tr><th>Rank<\/th><th>City<\/th><th>Why It&#8217;s Great for Young Adults<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>1.<\/td><td><strong>Burlington <\/strong><\/td><td>Retirees in Burlington enjoy programs at the Senior Center like dance nights, bingo, and fitness sessions. Great River Medical Center offers trusted senior care services, and the affordable&nbsp;homes for sale in Burlington&nbsp;make it easy to maintain a comfortable lifestyle.\u200b<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>2.<\/td><td><strong>Creston<\/strong><\/td><td>In Creston, retirees have access to dependable care at Greater Community Hospital, known for rehabilitation and heart health services. The peaceful trails and picnic spots at McKinley Park make it ideal for nature-loving retirees. It\u2019s easy to enjoy a quiet, low-cost retirement.\u200b<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>3.<\/td><td><strong>Oskaloosa <\/strong><\/td><td>Oskaloosa offers a community lifestyle with access to Mahaska Health for reliable medical care. Senior centers host wellness and social programs. You can find&nbsp;homes for sale in Oskaloosa&nbsp;and enjoy a relaxed lifestyle close to parks.\u200b<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-custom-accordion custom-accordion\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-custom-accordion-item accordion-item\"><button class=\"accordion-header\"><span class=\"accordion-title\">Is Iowa expensive to live in?<\/span><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"840px\" height=\"450px\" class=\"accordion-icon\" src=\"https:\/\/dtpwvruv8ddnl.cloudfront.net\/images\/flat-fee-mls\/faqArrow.svg\" alt=\"toggle\"\/><\/button><div class=\"accordion-content\">\n<p>No it is not that expensive,you can also get cheapest housing in Iowa.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-custom-accordion custom-accordion\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-custom-accordion-item accordion-item\"><button class=\"accordion-header\"><span class=\"accordion-title\">What care cheapest places to rent in Iowa?<\/span><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"840px\" height=\"450px\" class=\"accordion-icon\" src=\"https:\/\/dtpwvruv8ddnl.cloudfront.net\/images\/flat-fee-mls\/faqArrow.svg\" alt=\"toggle\"\/><\/button><div class=\"accordion-content\">\n<p>Fort Madison is the cheapest city to live in Iowa and rents are also among the lowest.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-25\" id=\"is-it-cheap-to-live-in-iowa\"><strong>3 Hidden Costs to Consider in Iowa<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Even in the cheapest Iowa cities to live in, home prices are only part of the cost. After severe weather events like derechos and floods, insurance premiums have risen. Factor in windstorm, flood coverage, and property taxes when looking for the cheapest area to live in Iowa.\u200b<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Windstorm Insurance:<\/strong>&nbsp;Many homeowners now pay around $1,500 yearly, with rural and tornado-prone areas exceeding $2,500. Inland cities like Keokuk and Oelwein generally have lower rates.\u200b<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Flood Insurance:<\/strong>&nbsp;Standard homeowners insurance doesn\u2019t include flood damage. Policies from&nbsp;<a         href=\"https:\/\/www.fema.gov\/about\/glossary\/national-flood-insurance-program-nfip\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">FEMA\u2019s NFIP<\/a>&nbsp;or private insurers average $900\u2013$1,500 per year in the Mississippi River cities.\u200b<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Property Taxes:<\/strong>&nbsp;Iowa&nbsp;<a         rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/property-tax\/\">property taxes<\/a>&nbsp;typically range from 1.4% to 1.8% of assessed home value, varying by county and adding significantly to yearly ownership costs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-houzeo-pro-tip-box wp-block-houzeo-grey-text blue-box-content-list pro-tip-blue-box\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"840px\" height=\"450px\" src=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/pro-tip-icon.png\" alt=\"pro tip icon\" class=\"pro-tip-icon\"\/><p class=\"pro-tip-text\"><strong>Quick Tip<\/strong> <span>Iowa\u2019s Homestead Exemption allows up to $4,850 off the taxable value of your primary residence, plus additional credits for seniors, which can significantly reduce costs. However, it does not apply to second homes or investment properties.<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-25\" id=\"is-iowa-cheap-to-live-in?\"><strong>Savings Breakdown: Cheapest Cities in Iowa to Live In<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Housing costs vary dramatically across Iowa. Keokuk residents save $1,450 monthly compared to Des Moines and $350 compared to Cedar Rapids. The following table breaks down these savings by median home price, monthly mortgage, property tax, insurance, and total monthly costs.\u200b<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">City<\/th><th class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Median Home Price<\/th><th class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Avg. Monthly Mortgage<\/th><th class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Insurance\/taxes<\/th><th class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Estimated Monthly Cost for a Single Person<\/th><th class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Monthly Savings vs. Des Moines<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Keokuk<\/strong><\/td><td>$125,000<\/td><td>$785<\/td><td>$250<\/td><td>$1,035<\/td><td>$1,450<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Cedar Rapids<\/strong><\/td><td>$237,500<\/td><td>$1,495<\/td><td>$320<\/td><td>$1,385<\/td><td>$1,100<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Des Moines<\/strong><\/td><td>$320,000<\/td><td>$2,015<\/td><td>$450<\/td><td>$2,485<\/td><td>\u2013<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-25\" id=\"cheap-homes-for-sale-iowa\"><strong>Affordable Living Beyond Iowa<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Not sure if the cheapest places in Iowa to live will fit your budget? Here are a few surrounding states that offer excellent education, strong jobs, and quality healthcare, just like Iowa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-15\"><strong>Education Excellence<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Nebraska&nbsp;ranks high for public schools and university access, with lower costs than urban Iowa hubs. Here are the top 3&nbsp;<a         href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/cheapest-places-to-live-in-nebraska\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">cheapest places to live in Nebraska<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Grand Island:<\/strong> Homes around $195,000, rent under $1,000, and strong schools via Hall County districts and Central Community College.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Kearney: <\/strong>Homes around $225,000, rent from $950, with career opportunities and campus community around the University of Nebraska Kearney.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>North Platte: <\/strong>Homes near $180,000, rent from $875, offering educational programs through Great Plains Health and community colleges.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-15\" id=\"is-iowa-a-cheap-state-to-live-in\"><strong>Robust Job Market<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Minnesota&nbsp;ranks in the top 10 for Midwest job growth, while the state&#8217;s cost of living stays below national averages. These are the top three&nbsp;<a         href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/cheapest-places-to-live-in-minnesota\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">cheapest places to live in Minnesota<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Worthington:<\/strong> Homes around $165,000, rent near $850. The job market includes JBS meatpacking, healthcare at Sanford Worthington, and education roles.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Austin: <\/strong>Homes around $185,000, rent near $900. The economy centers on Hormel Foods headquarters, Mayo Clinic jobs, and Riverland Community College.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Marshall: <\/strong>Homes from $175,000, rent $825\u2013$1,100. They offer jobs in manufacturing, healthcare expansion, and education at Southwest Minnesota State University.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-15\" id=\"is-iowa-a-cheap-place-to-live\"><strong>Healthcare Access<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Missouri&nbsp;offers affordable living near renowned medical centers like Barnes-Jewish, perfect for retirees and families. Here are the&nbsp;<a         href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/cheapest-places-to-live-in-missouri\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">cheapest places to live in Missouri<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Kennett: <\/strong>Median home price $125,000, rent from $725. Twin Rivers Regional Medical Center provides strong healthcare access with nearby specialists.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Poplar Bluff:<\/strong> Median home price $155,000, rent from $800. Black River Medical Center anchors rural healthcare with rehabilitation services.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sikeston:<\/strong> Homes around $145,000, rent from $775. Missouri Delta Medical Center serves the community with family healthcare and emergency care.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-25\" id=\"is-iowa-a-cheap-place-to-live\"><strong>Where Is the Cheapest Place to Live in Iowa?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Fort Madison, Keokuk, and Oelwein are the most affordable cities to live in Iowa. These areas offer more than low prices; they also provide steady job markets, plenty of recreation, and a cost of living 15% lower than the national norm.\u200b<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a         href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/moving-to-iowa\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Moving to Iowa<\/a>&nbsp;also offers valuable tax advantages, with property taxes averaging at 1.57%. Whether you&#8217;re relocating or buying your first home, you can browse listings, compare prices, and make offers online.<\/p>\n\n\n\t<div  class=\"hfsWidget \" data-widget-title=\"Find your dream home in Iowa now \ud83c\udfe1\" data-widget-list-item1=\"1st item\" data-widget-list-item2=\"2nd item\" data-widget-list-item3=\"3rd item\" data-widget-type=\"buyer1\" data-widget-vendor-type=\"inspector\" data-widget-state=\"ia\" data-widget-city=\"\" data-widget-redirect-url=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/homes-for-sale\/iowa\" data-widget-redirect-text=\"Homes for sale in Iowa\" data-widget-button-url=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\" data-widget-button-text=\"\" data-widget-min-price=\"0\" data-widget-max-price=\"0\" data-widget-min-area=\"0\" data-widget-max-area=\"0\" data-widget-sidebar=\"false\">\n        <div class=\"widgetMainBox mainBox456\">\n        <div class=\"widgetBox widgetBox3 buyer-one\">\n            <div class=\"widgetTop\" style=\"display: flex;\">\n                <div class=\"widgetTopcont\">\n                    <div class=\"homePageQuickListing -page homepage widgetInBox3 hfs_new_design_widget\">\n                      <div class=\"HeaderTopSidebar\"> \n                        <p class=\"headerStyle\">Find your dream home in Iowa now \ud83c\udfe1<\/p>\n                                                                         <div class=\"widgetList skeleton skeleton-text\">\n                            <p>View 697 homes for sale in <span\n                            class=\"propertyStateSpan\">IA<\/span><\/p>                            \n                        <\/div>\n                                                                      <\/div>  \n                        <div class=\"verifyFieldForm addInput\">\n                            <div class=\"inputSearchBox\">\n                                <div class=\"inputBoxElement addressBar\">\n                                    <input type=\"text\" name=\"ITBTtRE\" id=\"buyerAutocomplete\"\n                                        placeholder=\"Enter an address, city, neighborhood, or ZIP\"\n                                        class=\"pac-target-input buyerAutocomplete\" autocomplete=\"off\">\n                                <\/div>\n                                <span class=\"errorStreetMsg errorMsg\">Please enter valid address<\/span>\n                            <\/div>\n                            \n                            <div class=\"inputSubmitBox\">\n                                                                <button id=\"buyerBtnBox456\" class=\"continueCta storeAddress next_btn buyerBtnBox\">Search\n                                    <span class=\"arrowContinue\"><\/span><\/button>\n                            <\/div>\n                        \n                        <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"widgetInsideBox\">\n                <div class=\"widgetPropertyBoxNew\" id=\"propertyContainer\">\n                <div class=\"widgetPropertyInnerBox\">   \n                 \t\t\t\t\t\t   <div class=\"widgetPropColumnNew halfWidthCard\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/homes\/2001-w-6th-st-davenport-ia-52802\/hzid_d55422ec\" class=\"widgetAnchorColumnLink\" target=\"_blank\" >\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <div class=\"widgetImageBox\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.houzeo.com\/idx\/media\/2\/MRMMRD12679182\/0_6a314d4be720bdd2312b5101_c6b11b93c5_dim_640X450.webp\" alt=\"\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/dtpwvruv8ddnl.cloudfront.net\/seller\/listing\/uploads\/listing_images\/thumbnails\/empty-property.jpg';\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/dtpwvruv8ddnl.cloudfront.net\/images\/idx\/MRED_1712309001-xs.webp\" alt=\"logo\" class=\"insideWidgetLogo\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <div class=\"widgetTextBox\" >\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <p class=\"priceText\">$99,000<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <span class=\"addressText\">\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t2001 w 6th st, <br\/>davenport, IA 52802\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"suummarize-info grey-img\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/dtpwvruv8ddnl.cloudfront.net\/images\/blog\/blog-info-gray.svg\" alt=\"\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t <span class=\"voult-tooltip-box\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"info-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"fz-12\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tListing Provided by: Bryce Bowers | Epique Realty Inc <br>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSource: MRED MLS-IL | MLS#: 12679182<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t   <\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t   \t\t\t\t\t\t   <div class=\"widgetPropColumnNew halfWidthCard\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/homes\/318-north-main-st-maquoketa-ia-52060\/hzid_d986aa88\" class=\"widgetAnchorColumnLink\" target=\"_blank\" >\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <div class=\"widgetImageBox\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.houzeo.com\/idx\/media\/2\/MRMMRD12561021\/1_69836fb017aa5c709b54a906_a62f5a794e_dim_640X450.webp\" alt=\"\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/dtpwvruv8ddnl.cloudfront.net\/seller\/listing\/uploads\/listing_images\/thumbnails\/empty-property.jpg';\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/dtpwvruv8ddnl.cloudfront.net\/images\/idx\/MRED_1712309001-xs.webp\" alt=\"logo\" class=\"insideWidgetLogo\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <div class=\"widgetTextBox\" >\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <p class=\"priceText\">$229,900<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <span class=\"addressText\">\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t318 north main st, <br\/>maquoketa, IA 52060\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"suummarize-info grey-img\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/dtpwvruv8ddnl.cloudfront.net\/images\/blog\/blog-info-gray.svg\" alt=\"\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t <span class=\"voult-tooltip-box\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"info-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"fz-12\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tListing Provided by: Ashley Block | Ruhl&Ruhl REALTORS DeWitt <br>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSource: MRED MLS-IL | MLS#: 12561021<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t   <\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t                        <div class=\"widgetPropColumnNew fullWidthCard \">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/homes-for-sale\/iowa\" class=\"widgetanctextfind widgetancTextForAll\" target=\"_blank\">Homes for sale in Iowa<span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/houzeo-media-1.s3.amazonaws.com\/homes-for-sale\/blue-arrow.svg\" alt=\"arrow\" width=\"11\" height=\"10\"><\/span> \n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n                   <\/div>   \n               \n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n       \n    <\/div>\n\t<script>\n    document.addEventListener(\"DOMContentLoaded\", function() {        \n        if (!window.assetsLoaded) {\n            window.assetsLoaded = true;\n            var version = (typeof customData !== 'undefined' && customData.customVersion) ? customData.customVersion : '1.0';\n            loadScript('\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/houzeo-new-design\/js\/hfs-widget.js?version=' + version);\n            loadCSS('\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/houzeo-new-design\/css\/hfs-widget.css?version=' + version);\n        }    \n    });\n\t\t\n\t<\/script>\n\t\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-28\" id=\"FAQs\"><strong>Frequently Asked Questions<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\t\t<div class=\"wp-faq-schema-wrap wp-faq-schema-accordion\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"wp-faq-schema-items\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"ui-accordion-header\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\tWhere is the least expensive place to live in Iowa?\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ui-accordion-header-icon ui-icon ui-icon-triangle-1-s\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"ui-accordion-content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>The cheapest place to live in Iowa is <a href=\"#fort-madison\">Fort Madison<\/a>. It offers affordable housing at a median sale price of 115K.<\/p>\n<p><strong>\u00bb <a href=\"#cheapest-ia-cities\" target=\"_blank\">10 Cheapest Places to Live in Iowa<\/a>:<\/strong> Find out the other cheapest places to live in Iowa.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"ui-accordion-header\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\tWhere is the best place to live in Iowa?\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ui-accordion-header-icon ui-icon ui-icon-triangle-1-s\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"ui-accordion-content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/best-places-to-live-in-iowa\/\" target=\"_blank\">best place to live in Iowa<\/a> is Des Moines, followed by Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, Sioux City, Dubuque, Davenport, and Cedar Falls.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"ui-accordion-header\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\tWhat are the living expenses in Iowa?\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ui-accordion-header-icon ui-icon ui-icon-triangle-1-s\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"ui-accordion-content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>The average cost to live in Iowa is 6% lower than the national average. Also, utilities are 4% lower than the national average.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"ui-accordion-header\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\tWhere are the cheap places to retire in Iowa?\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ui-accordion-header-icon ui-icon ui-icon-triangle-1-s\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"ui-accordion-content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Burlington, Creston, and Oskaloosa are among the <a href=\"#best-places-to-retire-on-a-budget\">cheap places to retire in Iowa<\/a> on a budget. They offer affordable housing, small-town comfort, and easy access to medical care.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"ui-accordion-header\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\tWhich cities have the cheapest cost of living in Iowa?\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ui-accordion-header-icon ui-icon ui-icon-triangle-1-s\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"ui-accordion-content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><a href=\"#oelwein\">Oelwein<\/a> (77) and <a href=\"#creston\">Creston<\/a> (83) have the cheapest cost of living in Iowa. Oelwein's cost of living is 18.1% below the average, while Creston's is 11.7% lower. <\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<div class=\"new-excerpt\"><p class=\"small-desc\">Here are the cheapest places to live in Iowa: 1. Keokuk 2. Oelwein 3. Fort Madison 4. Burlington 5. Creston 6. Waterloo 7....<\/p><\/div><div class=\"reading_date\"><span class=\"readtime\">9 mins read<\/span><span class=\"date\">Aug 01, 2026<\/span><\/div>","protected":false},"author":218,"featured_media":505789,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[46225,46263],"tags":[50088,32299,32300,50089,32302],"class_list":["post-476743","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-buyer","category-cheapest-places-to-live","tag-best-affordable-towns-in-iowa","tag-cheapest-places-in-iowa-to-live-in","tag-cheapest-places-to-live-in-ia","tag-iowa-affordable-towns-living-options","tag-where-is-the-cheapest-places-to-live-in-iowa"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v26.6 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>10 Cheapest Places to Live in Iowa (2026 Updates)<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Here are the cheapest places to live in Iowa: 1. 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