The Most Popular City in Iowa, Ranked

Choose the city you think is the most popular!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on May 27, 2024 06:46
Selecting the right city to visit or move to in Iowa can be a significant decision, full of various factors to consider such as community, local services, and cultural offerings. Having a reliable and current ranking of the most popular cities could significantly ease this decision-making process. By aggregating preferences and experiences, a clearer picture of each city's standing is provided. On this site, your votes directly influence the rankings, helping to create a continually updated list of top cities according to collective user input. This dynamic approach allows the list to reflect real-time changes and collective opinions, making it a valuable resource for anyone planning a visit or move to Iowa. Your participation ensures the ranking is as current and relevant as possible.

What Is the Most Popular City in Iowa?

  1. 1
    36
    votes

    Cedar Rapids

    The second-largest city in Iowa, known for its arts and cultural scene, with a rich history in manufacturing.
    • Population: 133,562
    • Established: 1838
  2. 2
    34
    votes

    Des Moines

    The capital and the most populous city in Iowa, known for its insurance industry, financial services, and publishing business.
    • Population: 214,133
    • Established: 1843
  3. 3
    24
    votes

    Davenport

    The largest city in the Quad Cities region, known for its vibrant arts scene and historical significance along the Mississippi River.
    • Population: 101,590
    • Established: 1836
  4. 4
    17
    votes

    Sioux City

    A major urban center in northwestern Iowa, known for its diverse economy, including manufacturing, technology, and healthcare.
    • Population: 82,651
    • Established: 1854
  5. 5
    14
    votes

    Iowa City

    Home to the University of Iowa, this city is known for its strong emphasis on arts and literature, hosting the Iowa Writers' Workshop.
    • Population: 74,828
    • Established: 1839
  6. 6
    11
    votes

    Ames

    Home to Iowa State University, this city is known for its contributions to research, education, and culture.
    • Population: 66,427
    • Established: 1864
  7. 7
    9
    votes

    Ankeny

    One of the fastest-growing cities in Iowa, known for its quality of life, parks, and recreational activities.
    • Population: 67,355
    • Established: 1903
  8. 8
    7
    votes

    Waterloo

    A city in northeastern Iowa known for its history in manufacturing and as the home of the John Deere Tractor Assembly Plant.
    • Population: 67,798
    • Established: 1845
  9. 9
    6
    votes

    Council Bluffs

    Located on the east bank of the Missouri River, known for its historic trails, railroads, and casinos.
    • Population: 62,799
    • Established: 1853
  10. 10
    1
    votes

    West Des Moines

    A rapidly growing suburb of Des Moines, known for its shopping, dining, and entertainment options, as well as its business-friendly environment.
    • Population: 68,723
    • Established: 1893

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About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most popular city in Iowa. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or city is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 1644 views
  • 159 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Movers & Shakers

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each city once every 24 hours. The rank of each city is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

Additional Information

More about the Most Popular City in Iowa

Cedar Rapids
Rank #1 for the most popular city in Iowa: Cedar Rapids (Source)
Iowa, a state in the Midwest, is known for its charming cities and friendly residents. Among these cities, one stands out as the most popular. This city has a rich history and vibrant culture that attract many visitors each year.

The city began as a small settlement in the early 19th century. Pioneers and traders saw potential in the area due to its fertile land and strategic location. Over time, it grew into a bustling hub of activity. The arrival of the railroad in the mid-1800s spurred further growth, connecting it to other major cities in the region.

Today, the city is a blend of historical charm and modern amenities. Its downtown area features well-preserved buildings from the 19th and early 20th centuries. These structures house a mix of shops, restaurants, and offices. The local government has made efforts to maintain the city's historical integrity while encouraging new development.

A key attraction is the city's cultural scene. It boasts several museums that showcase art, history, and science. Theaters and music venues host performances ranging from local acts to international stars. Festivals and events fill the calendar, drawing crowds from near and far.

Education plays a significant role in the city's appeal. It is home to several colleges and universities. These institutions contribute to the city's youthful energy and innovation. They also provide a steady stream of educated professionals who fuel the local economy.

Parks and green spaces add to the city's charm. Residents and visitors alike enjoy the many outdoor activities available. Trails for walking, running, and biking weave through the city, offering scenic views and a chance to connect with nature. The river that runs through the city provides opportunities for boating and fishing.

The city's economy is diverse and robust. Major industries include finance, insurance, and healthcare. Manufacturing and agriculture also play important roles. The presence of these industries ensures a stable job market and a high quality of life for residents.

Public transportation is well-developed, making it easy to get around. Buses and bike-sharing programs are popular options. The city also has an airport that connects it to other major cities across the country.

The food scene in the city is diverse and vibrant. Restaurants offer a range of cuisines, from traditional Midwestern fare to international dishes. Farmers' markets are a common sight, providing fresh, locally-sourced produce and goods.

The city's residents are known for their friendliness and community spirit. Neighborhoods are close-knit, with many community events and gatherings. This sense of community is one of the city's defining features.

In recent years, the city has seen a surge in tourism. People come to experience its unique blend of history, culture, and modern amenities. The city's efforts to preserve its heritage while embracing the future make it a special place to visit and live.

Overall, the most popular city in Iowa has much to offer. Its rich history, vibrant culture, and strong sense of community make it a standout destination in the Midwest. Whether you're visiting for a weekend or planning to stay longer, this city is sure to leave a lasting impression.

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