{"id":628788,"date":"2026-05-12T06:53:00","date_gmt":"2026-05-12T10:53:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/?p=628788"},"modified":"2026-05-12T06:53:05","modified_gmt":"2026-05-12T10:53:05","slug":"moving-to-iowa","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/moving-to-iowa\/","title":{"rendered":"Moving to Iowa: 4 Reasons to Pack Your Bags &#038; Move"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Thinking about moving to Iowa? The state has a <a   href=\"https:\/\/www.ibisworld.com\/united-states\/economic-profiles\/iowa\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">$201.7 billion<\/a> economy, with growing jobs in the construction, healthcare, energy, and manufacturing sectors. With its affordability and easy access to healthcare and education, it ranks <a   href=\"https:\/\/www.usnews.com\/news\/best-states\/iowa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">2nd<\/a> nationally for opportunities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But the move comes with trade-offs. Due to its location in the Tornado Alley, Iowa faces a high risk of tornadoes, derechos, and floods. Still, many are choosing cities like Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, and Davenport for their lower living costs and a better quality of life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udc49 Download the&nbsp;<a   href=\"https:\/\/apps.apple.com\/app\/id1576836461\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Houzeo mobile app<\/strong><\/a>&nbsp;and start your Iowa home search today.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-houzeo-takeaways-list takeawaysSec\"><p class=\"headKeySec\">AT A GLANCE:<\/p><ul class=\"listing\"><li>The Hawkeye State has a $201.7 billion economy, with growing jobs in the construction, healthcare, energy, and manufacturing sectors.<\/li><li>The state has over 70,000 job openings in 2025, and aims to add 113,420 more by the end of 2032.<\/li><li>Iowa ranks 4th in the US for its robust healthcare and education system.<\/li><li>The cost of living in Iowa is 3% lower than the national average, and rent in Iowa is 46% cheaper.<\/li><li>With a flat 3.8% state income tax, Iowa has the 6th-lowest income tax in the country.<\/li><li>Expect to pay between $2,200 and $6,400 for your move, depending on how far you\u2019re moving and the size of your belongings.<\/li><li>Iowa has a humid continental climate. Summers are typically hot and humid, while winters see heavy snowfall.<\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-28\" id=\"life-in-iowa\"><strong>4 Reasons to Move to Iowa<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Why settle for just sunny beaches when you can also enjoy the high life? Browse through over thousands of mansions, high-rise penthouses, and spacious <a   href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/homes-for-sale\/iowa\/luxury-homes-for-sale\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">luxury homes for sale in Iowa<\/a>, and enjoy the finest the state has to offer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-15\" id=\"industries-in-Iowa\"><strong>1. Jobs in Iowa <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Iowa&#8217;s robust economy has around <a   href=\"https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/regions\/midwest\/news-release\/jobopeningslaborturnover_iowa.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">70,000<\/a> job openings in 2025, and aims to add <a   href=\"https:\/\/workforce.iowa.gov\/labor-market-information\/occupations\/occupational-projections\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">113,420<\/a> more by the end of 2032. Construction, healthcare, energy, and advanced manufacturing are the fastest-growing job sectors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Construction:<\/strong> With over <a   href=\"https:\/\/www.agc.org\/sites\/default\/files\/users\/user21902\/IA-US-construction-fact-sheet_2024.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">9,500<\/a> construction establishments, the sector contributes around $12 billion to Iowa&#8217;s GDP, and supports over 85,800 jobs across the state. On average, a construction worker in Iowa makes $46,500 annually.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong style=\"color: initial; text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);\">Healthcare:<\/strong><span style=\"color: initial; font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);\"> The <\/span>healthcare sector in Iowa contributes around $22.9 billion, and supports over 141,000 jobs across the state. Roles like registered nurses, physical therapists, and occupational therapists are in high demand.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Renewable Energy:<\/strong> The renewable energy sector contributes <a   href=\"https:\/\/iowarfa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/250429-FINAL-IRFA-2024-Iowa-Economic-Contribution-Report.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">$23.6 billion<\/a> to the state&#8217;s GDP, and supports over 34,600 jobs. On average, a renewable energy worker makes over $76,000 per year. High demand roles include wind turbine technicians and solar installers.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong style=\"color: initial; text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);\">Advanced Manufacturing:<\/strong><span style=\"color: initial; font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);\"> <\/span>Contributing <a   href=\"https:\/\/opportunityiowa.gov\/business\/iowa-advantage\/key-industries\/advanced-manufacturing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">$35 billion<\/a> annually, advanced manufacturing is the state&#8217;s largest industry and accounts for 17% of Iowa\u2019s GDP. The average annual salary is <a   href=\"https:\/\/www.ziprecruiter.com\/Salaries\/Advanced-Manufacturing-Salary--in-Iowa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">$90,170<\/a>, and roles like CNC machinists, welders, and design engineers are in high demand.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-15\" id=\"education-in-iowa\"><strong>2. Education in Iowa<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Iowa ranks <a   href=\"https:\/\/www.heritage.org\/educationreportcard\/pages\/states\/ia.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">#11<\/a> nationally for education and #4 for education choice. The state serves over <a   href=\"https:\/\/learningpolicyinstitute.org\/sites\/default\/files\/2025-03\/pub_private_Iowa_MAP.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">559,000<\/a> students across 303 school districts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Public Schools:<\/strong>\u00a0The state has\u00a01,325\u00a0public schools located across the state. West Senior High School and Pleasant Valley High School, both known for high rates of Advanced Placement (AP) course participation, are among the top-ranked public schools in Iowa.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Private Schools:<\/strong>\u00a0Iowa is home to\u00a0225\u00a0private schools. The average tuition for private schools is <a   href=\"https:\/\/www.privateschoolreview.com\/tuition-stats\/iowa#:~:text=The%20average%20private%20school%20tuition,with%20a%20tuition%20of%20%241%2C560.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">$9,773<\/a>\u00a0per year. Rivermont Collegiate, Dowling Catholic High School, and Lourdes Catholic School are among the top private schools in the state.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Higher Education:\u00a0<\/strong>Iowa has nearly <a   href=\"https:\/\/collegestats.org\/colleges\/iowa\/#:~:text=Iowa%20has%20nearly%2070%20accredited%20colleges%20and%20universities.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">70<\/a><span style=\"color: initial; font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);\"> accredited colleges and universities<\/span>. This includes t<span style=\"color: initial; font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);\">he University of Iowa, known for its medical center, and Iowa State University, renowned for its programs in engineering and aerospace. <\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-15\" id=\"healthcare-in-iowa\"><strong>3. Healthcare in Iowa<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>With <a   href=\"https:\/\/www.definitivehc.com\/resources\/healthcare-insights\/largest-idns-iowa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">132<\/a> hospitals statewide, Iowa&#8217;s healthcare system ranks as the <a   href=\"https:\/\/governor.iowa.gov\/vision-iowa-0\/health-care\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">4th<\/a> best nationally. Moreover, the state has the lowest healthcare costs in the country. UI Health Care and Iowa Methodist Medical Center are leading hospitals in Iowa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Additionally, Iowa offers several state-funded healthcare programs, including Iowa Medicaid, which provides healthcare coverage to eligible individuals. Hawki (Healthy and Well Kids in Iowa) is an insurance program for children who don&#8217;t qualify for Medicaid but cannot afford private insurance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-15\" id=\"home-prices-in-Iowa\"><strong>4. Affordable Housing<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Iowa ranks among the <a   href=\"https:\/\/www.usnews.com\/news\/best-states\/slideshows\/10-states-with-the-most-affordable-housing?slide=3\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">top 10<\/a> states for affordable housing. The state has a median house price of $233K, which is 36% lower than the national average, and rent in Iowa is 46% less.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Recent trends show that 25% of listed homes have seen a price drop. The average property spends 6 more days on the market before being sold, compared to the last year. This combination of falling prices and slower demand gives buyers greater negotiating power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-25\" id=\"living-in-iowa-pros-and-cons\"><strong>Pros and Cons of Living in Iowa<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are the benefits and drawbacks of moving to Iowa:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>\u2705 Pros<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>\u274c Cons<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>1. You will have easy access to growing jobs in the construction, healthcare, energy, and manufacturing sectors.<\/td><td>1. Due to its location in the infamous Tornado Alley, the state is prone to natural disasters like tornadoes, derechos, and floods.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>2. The cost of living in Iowa is 3% lower than the national average. Housing and renting is also significantly cheaper.<\/td><td>2. Public transportation is sparse outside of major urban areas. Owning a car for daily errands is a necessity here.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>3. Iowa has a low crime rate, with just <a   href=\"https:\/\/getsafeandsound.com\/blog\/crime-rate-by-state\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">2.87<\/a> violent crimes per 1,000 residents, compared to 4 incidents nationally.<\/td><td>3. Winters in Iowa are harsh. The state receives 18 to 42 inches of snowfall each year, depending on location.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-25\" id=\"what-is-it-like-to-live-in-iowa\"><strong>Things to Know Before Moving to Iowa\ud83d\udccc<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are some things to keep in mind before relocating to Iowa:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-15\" id=\"why-move-to-Iowa\"><strong>1. Cost of Living in Iowa<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The cost of living in Iowa is 3% lower than the national average. So, you&#8217;ll save on utilities and rent, though transportation, healthcare, and groceries can get expensive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Hawkeye State is an appealing option compared to more popular states like California and New York, where living costs are&nbsp;58%&nbsp;and&nbsp;30%&nbsp;above the national average.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-15\" id=\"Infrastructure-and-Transportation\"><strong>2. Infrastructure and Transportation<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>With recent investments in infrastructure projects, the infrastructure score of Iowa has improved. However, <a   href=\"https:\/\/infrastructurereportcard.org\/state-item\/iowa\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">19.2%<\/a> of its bridges are structurally deficient. Moreover, 24% of the roads in Iowa are in poor or fair condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Iowa continues to invest in infrastructure projects such as the Burlington Street Bridge replacement and Rochester Avenue reconstruction. The state is set to receive <a   href=\"https:\/\/bidenwhitehouse.archives.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/IOWA_Infrastructure-Investment-and-Jobs-Act-State-Fact-Sheet.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">$3.4 billion<\/a> in federal funding to improve its highways and $432 million for bridge replacement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-15\" id=\"climate\"><strong>3. Climate in Iowa<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"margin-top-15\">Iowa has a continental climate. Summers are usually hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 68\u00b0F to 91\u00b0F. Meanwhile, winters are cold and snowy, with temperatures between 0\u00b0F and 32\u00b0F. Plus, there are <a   href=\"https:\/\/secure.smore.com\/n\/7s467-iowa-weather-climate#:~:text=On%20average%2C%20there%20are%20200,where%20higher%20is%20more%20comfortable.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">200<\/a> days of sunshine a year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, due to its location in the infamous Tornado Alley, Iowa is prone to tornadoes, derechos, and flooding. Climate change is also increasing the risk of extreme heat and flooding events. It&#8217;s crucial to check the FEMA-designated risk zones before moving to Iowa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-15\" id=\"Laws-and-Regulations\"><strong>4. Laws and Regulations<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list margin-top-15\">\n<li><strong>Vehicle and Driver&#8217;s License Registration:<\/strong> You have to register your vehicle and obtain an Iowa driver&#8217;s license within <a   href=\"https:\/\/iowadot.gov\/registration-plates\/vehicle-registration-titles\/register-vehicle\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">30 days<\/a> of establishing your residency. You will need proof of identity, residence, and Social Security number for the process.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Moving to Iowa with a Gun:<\/strong> No permits are required to purchase or carry a firearm for those aged <a   href=\"https:\/\/dps.iowa.gov\/weapon-permits-frequently-asked-questions\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">18 years<\/a> or older. Though the permits are not necessary, they are useful when you carry your firearm to another state.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Recreational Marijuana:<\/strong> Use of marijuana for recreational purposes is not legal in Iowa. Possession can lead to <a   href=\"https:\/\/norml.org\/laws\/iowa-penalties-2\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">$1,000 to $100,000<\/a> in fines, and 6 months to 10 years in prison. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Pet Registration Laws:<\/strong> There is no statewide law for pet registration and vaccination in Iowa. However, cities often have their own local laws. Visit your city website to check for any such requirements.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-15\" id=\"Tax-Burden-in-iowa\"><strong>5. Tax Burden in Iowa<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Iowa has the <a   href=\"https:\/\/iowacapitaldispatch.com\/2025\/01\/02\/iowas-income-tax-drops-to-single-3-8-rate-in-2025\/#:~:text=The%20law%2C%20signed%20by%20Gov,according%20to%20the%20Tax%20Foundation.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">6th-lowest<\/a> income tax burden in the country. Here&#8217;s a breakdown:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Income Tax in Iowa: <\/strong>Iowa has recently reduced its income tax rate from 5.7% in 2024 to a flat 3.8% rate in 2025. Additionally, cities are not allowed to levy additional income tax.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sales Tax in Iowa: <\/strong>Iowa levies a flat <a   href=\"https:\/\/www.avalara.com\/taxrates\/en\/state-rates\/iowa.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">6%<\/a> state sales tax, which is among the lowest in the country. However, the cities often levy up to 2% more, making the effective rate of sales tax in Iowa between 6% and 8%. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Property Taxes in Iowa:<\/strong> The median property tax in Iowa is <a   href=\"https:\/\/www.ownwell.com\/trends\/iowa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">1.55%<\/a>, which is significantly higher than the national average of 1.02% of the assessed value of your house. On average, a homeowner pays $2,508 in property taxes for a house valued at $167,100.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-25\" id=\"moving-to-iowa-checklist\"><strong>How to Move to Iowa?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Before <a   href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/how-to-buy-a-house-in-iowa\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">buying a house in Iowa<\/a>, follow this step-by-step guide for a seamless move:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-15\" id=\"how-much-does-it-cost-to-move-to-iowa\"><strong>1. How to Plan Your Logistics?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>If you want to skip all the heavy lifting, consider hiring a professional mover. You can expect to pay around $199 per hour. However, this amount can vary depending on the size of your belongings and the distance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If you want to DIY, renting a truck is a better option. The average cost to rent a mid-sized truck with a load capacity of 4,000 to 6,000 lbs ranges between\u00a0$40 and $80 per day. Be sure to factor in additional charges for mileage, fuel, and insurance.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-15\" id=\"how-to-set-up\"><strong>2. How to Set Up Utilities in Iowa?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Setting up your utilities in Iowa is a straightforward process:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Electricity and Gas:<\/strong> MidAmerican Energy serves the central, western, and southeastern regions, while also Alliant Energy serves communities statewide. Visit the provider&#8217;s website to check availability in your area and start service.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Water and Sewer:<\/strong> These services in Iowa are usually provided by the local municipality&#8217;s utility department, along with some local providers. Visit your city website to find out the appropriate service provider for your area. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Internet and Cable:<\/strong> Mediacom and CenturyLink are among the largest service providers in Iowa. Internet and cable costs typically range from $35 to $80 per month. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-15\" id=\"how-to-enroll\"><strong>3. How to Enroll Your Kids in Schools in Iowa?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Most schools in Iowa offer online registration:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>For Kindergarten:<\/strong> Your children must be <a   href=\"https:\/\/nces.ed.gov\/programs\/statereform\/tab1_3-2020.asp\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">5 years<\/a> old for kindergarten and 6 years old for first grade before September 15th. You will need the child&#8217;s birth certificate, vaccination records, proof of residency, and a photo ID.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>For Older Kids:<\/strong> You&#8217;ll need all the above-mentioned documents, in addition to transcripts and a withdrawal form from their previous school. If your kids are high school athletes, check their athletic eligibility with the new school before enrolling.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Transfer and Special Cases:<\/strong> Transfers and special cases in Iowa are typically managed by the local school districts. You can directly visit their website or contact the school district office for assistance in the enrollment process.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-15\" id=\"how-to-transfer\"><strong>4. How to Transfer Your Job or Find a New One?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Work From Home: <\/strong><a   href=\"https:\/\/www.selectsoftwarereviews.com\/blog\/work-from-home-hotspots-usa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">21%<\/a> of employees in Iowa work from home. If you are someone who works remotely, just ask your employer about any state-specific tax and employment laws.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Find a New Job:<\/strong> IowaWorks Centers offer counseling, search assistance, and workshops, while IowaWorks.gov is the state&#8217;s largest job bank. You can also visit job portals like Indeed and LinkedIn to search and apply for jobs in your city.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-15\" id=\"buying-h-house-in-iowa\"><strong>5. How to Find the Perfect House?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a   href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/housing-market\/iowa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Iowa housing market<\/a> leans in favor of buyers at present. 25.5% of listed homes have experienced price drops, and inventory has increased by 21.1%. This gives buyers more negotiating power to secure better deals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>In popular cities like Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, and Davenport, the average rent is around $1,125. It depends on the neighborhood you&#8217;re moving to and the available amenities.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If you plan to buy a home in a popular city, homes for sale in Des Moines cost around $211K. Meanwhile, cities like Keokuk and Oelwein offer more affordable options, with median home prices of\u00a0$85K\u00a0and\u00a0$108K respectively.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-25\" id=\"are-people-moving-to-iowa\"><strong>Should I Move to Iowa?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes, you should definitely move to Iowa. The state combines new opportunities, a good quality of life, and friendly communities. However, relocating to Iowa isn&#8217;t easy. It takes time, careful planning, and effort to find the perfect place to call your home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With Houzeo, Iowa&#8217;s best home-buying website, buying a house in the Hawkeye State is simple. You can browse through the latest listings, save your favorites, schedule showings, and submit offers, all at your fingertips.<\/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 865 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\/1202-adams-st-davenport-ia-52803\/hzid_6f59b1c9\" 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\/MRMMRD12635679\/0_69f4e7cf4b06108c01d46b7c_2b522796ed_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\">$150,000<\/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\t1202 adams st, <br\/>davenport, IA 52803\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: Sarah Perez | Currents and Keys Realty <br>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSource: MRED MLS-IL | MLS#: 12635679<\/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\/411-e-8th-st-davenport-ia-52803\/hzid_f9775112\" 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\/MRMMRD12664918\/0_6a20dc5ef776d516065d43f2_0a254a3b58_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\">$130,000<\/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\t411 e 8th st, <br\/>davenport, IA 52803\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: Brandon Kennedy | Ruhl&Ruhl REALTORS Moline <br>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSource: MRED MLS-IL | MLS#: 12664918<\/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<p><strong>\u00bb NEED MORE CLARITY?&nbsp;<\/strong>Read these exclusive&nbsp;<a   href=\"https:\/\/www.realestatequeen.com\/houzeo-reviews\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Houzeo reviews<\/a>&nbsp;and learn why the platform is the best in America\u2019s competitive housing market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-25\" id=\"data-sources\"><strong>Data Sources<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>To help you make a smart move to Iowa, we analyzed key data points that impact relocation costs, lifestyle, and employment prospects. We&#8217;ve sourced reliable, up-to-date data across the following categories:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong style=\"color: initial;\"><a   href=\"https:\/\/statisticalatlas.com\/state\/Iowa\/Overview\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Statistical Atlas<\/a>:<\/strong><span style=\"color: initial;\"> Major employers<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a   href=\"https:\/\/www.zillow.com\/rental-manager\/market-trends\/ia\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Zillow<\/a>:<\/strong> Average rent, Median home price<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a   href=\"https:\/\/www.movebuddha.com\/move-costs\/ia\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">MoveBuddha<\/a>:<\/strong> Estimated moving costs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a   href=\"https:\/\/www.thisoldhouse.com\/moving\/cost-to-rent-a-moving-truck\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Thisoldhouse<\/a>:<\/strong> DIY truck rental rates, Average cost of moving<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>By backing our insights with real numbers, we give you a clear picture of what it really takes to relocate to Iowa, long before the moving boxes are packed.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<div class=\"new-excerpt\"><p class=\"small-desc\">Curious about why moving to Iowa is ideal? Here are the 4 major reasons: 1. Jobs 2. Education 3. Healthcare 4. Affordable...<\/p><\/div><div class=\"reading_date\"><span class=\"readtime\">11 mins read<\/span><span class=\"date\">May 12, 2026<\/span><\/div>","protected":false},"author":257,"featured_media":631403,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[46225,46234],"tags":[48752,48754,48751,48749,48753],"class_list":["post-628788","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-buyer","category-moving-to","tag-moving-to-des-moines","tag-moving-to-iowa-dmv","tag-moving-to-iowa-pros-and-cons","tag-outdoor-activities-in-iowa","tag-relocating-to-des-moines-iowa"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v26.6 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Moving to Iowa: 4 Reasons to Pack Your Bags &amp; Move (2025)<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Curious about why moving to Iowa is ideal? Here are the 4 major reasons: 1. Jobs 2. Education 3. Healthcare 4. Affordable Housing...\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/moving-to-iowa\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Moving to Iowa: 4 Reasons to Pack Your Bags &amp; Move (2025)\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Curious about why moving to Iowa is ideal? Here are the 4 major reasons: 1. Jobs 2. Education 3. Healthcare 4. Affordable Housing...\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/moving-to-iowa\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Houzeo Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2026-05-12T10:53:00+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-05-12T10:53:05+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Iowa.webp\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1920\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1080\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/webp\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Harshit Yadav\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Harshit Yadav\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"10 minutes\" \/>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"Moving to Iowa: 4 Reasons to Pack Your Bags & Move (2025)","description":"Curious about why moving to Iowa is ideal? 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