20 Worst Places to Live in Iowa: Cities to Avoid in the Hawkeye State
Iowa, known for its rolling prairies and agricultural heritage, offers many great places to live.
However, like any state, it also has areas that may be less desirable for various reasons.
These locations can face challenges related to economic opportunities, crime rates, educational quality, or other livability factors.
This article examines 20 places in Iowa that rank among the least favorable for residents based on key metrics and local conditions.
By exploring these areas, readers can gain insight into the diverse landscape of Iowa’s communities and the complex factors that shape quality of life across the state.
The analysis provides an objective look at statistics and local realities to inform those considering relocation or curious about Iowa’s urban and rural environments.
1. Keosauqua
Keosauqua, a small town in southeastern Iowa, faces significant challenges that impact its livability. With a population of around 900 residents, the town struggles with limited economic opportunities.
The local job market is scarce, forcing many residents to commute long distances for employment. This situation contributes to a declining population and stagnant economic growth.
Keosauqua’s infrastructure is aging, with some roads and public facilities in need of repair or upgrades. The town’s remote location also means limited access to certain amenities and services.
Educational options are restricted, with only one elementary school serving the area. Students must travel to neighboring towns for middle and high school education.
Healthcare services in Keosauqua are minimal, lacking specialized medical care. Residents often need to travel to larger cities for comprehensive healthcare needs.
The town’s isolated location and small population can lead to a lack of cultural diversity and limited entertainment options for residents.
2. Fort Madison
Fort Madison, located in southeast Iowa, faces significant challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The city struggles with a high crime rate, particularly property crimes, which exceed state and national averages.
Economic issues plague Fort Madison, with limited job opportunities and a higher unemployment rate than the state average. The closure of the Iowa State Penitentiary in 2015 dealt a blow to the local economy.
Education in Fort Madison presents concerns, as school performance metrics fall below state averages. This can affect students’ future prospects and the overall attractiveness of the area to families.
The city’s infrastructure shows signs of aging, with some roads and public facilities in need of repair or updates. This can lead to increased maintenance costs for residents and businesses.
Fort Madison’s location along the Mississippi River exposes it to flooding risks, which can cause property damage and disrupt daily life for residents. These factors contribute to Fort Madison’s inclusion on the list of challenging places to live in Iowa.
3. Oelwein
Oelwein, located in Fayette County, faces significant challenges that impact its residents’ quality of life. The city has experienced a steady population decline over the past few decades, leading to reduced economic opportunities.
Unemployment rates in Oelwein remain higher than the state average. This lack of job prospects has contributed to increased poverty levels within the community.
Crime rates in Oelwein are also a concern for residents. The city reports higher-than-average property crime statistics compared to other Iowa towns of similar size.
Educational outcomes in Oelwein’s public schools fall below state averages. This can limit future opportunities for the city’s youth and make it less attractive to families considering relocation.
The city’s infrastructure shows signs of aging, with some roads and public facilities in need of repair or updates. Limited funding has made it difficult for local government to address these issues promptly.
4. Clinton
Clinton, located along the Mississippi River in eastern Iowa, faces significant challenges. The city has experienced a steady population decline over the past few decades, dropping from over 32,000 residents in 1980 to around 24,000 today.
Economic struggles contribute to Clinton’s difficulties. The closure of major employers has led to job losses and reduced opportunities for residents. This has resulted in a higher unemployment rate compared to the state average.
Crime rates in Clinton are a concern for many residents. The city’s crime rate exceeds both state and national averages, particularly in property crimes. This impacts the overall quality of life and safety perception in the community.
Clinton’s aging infrastructure presents another challenge. Many roads and buildings require repairs or updates, straining the city’s limited resources. This affects both residents’ daily lives and the city’s ability to attract new businesses.
5. Council Bluffs
Council Bluffs, located in western Iowa, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The city struggles with a higher crime rate compared to the national average, raising safety concerns for residents.
Unemployment rates in Council Bluffs tend to be higher than the state average. This can lead to economic instability for some residents and affect the overall job market.
The city’s educational system has room for improvement. Some schools in Council Bluffs perform below state averages, potentially impacting students’ academic opportunities.
Air quality in Council Bluffs can be a concern due to its proximity to industrial areas and heavy traffic. This may contribute to health issues for some residents, particularly those with respiratory conditions.
Council Bluffs also experiences occasional flooding due to its location near the Missouri River. This can cause property damage and disrupt daily life for residents in affected areas.
6. Mason City
Mason City, located in north-central Iowa, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The city experiences harsh winters with heavy snowfall and frigid temperatures, making daily life difficult for residents during the cold months.
Crime rates in Mason City are higher than the national average, particularly for property crimes. This raises concerns about safety and security for inhabitants.
The local economy has struggled in recent years, with limited job opportunities and slow growth. Many residents commute to other areas for work, which can be inconvenient and time-consuming.
Mason City’s aging infrastructure is another issue. Some roads and public facilities require repairs or updates, affecting the quality of life for citizens.
The city has a limited range of entertainment and cultural options compared to larger urban areas. This can lead to a lack of recreational activities, especially for younger residents.
7. Burlington
Burlington, located in southeast Iowa, faces significant challenges. The city struggles with a declining population and economic difficulties.
Crime rates in Burlington exceed state and national averages. Property crime is particularly prevalent, causing concerns for residents and businesses alike.
The local economy has been hit hard by manufacturing job losses. This has led to reduced employment opportunities and stagnant wages for many workers.
Burlington’s aging infrastructure poses problems. Roads and bridges require repairs, while some public facilities need updating to meet modern standards.
The city’s public schools have experienced budget cuts and declining enrollment. This impacts the quality of education available to local students.
Environmental issues also affect Burlington. The Mississippi River, which borders the city, faces pollution concerns that impact both recreation and wildlife.
8. Waterloo
Waterloo, Iowa’s sixth-largest city, faces significant challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The city struggles with a high crime rate, ranking among the most dangerous in the state.
Unemployment remains a persistent issue in Waterloo. The local economy has struggled to recover from the loss of manufacturing jobs, leaving many residents without stable employment opportunities.
Education in Waterloo presents another concern. The city’s public schools consistently underperform compared to state averages, potentially affecting students’ future prospects.
Waterloo’s infrastructure is aging and in need of repairs. Many roads and bridges require maintenance, while some neighborhoods lack adequate public transportation options.
The city also grapples with environmental issues. Water quality concerns have been reported, and some areas face increased flood risks due to their proximity to the Cedar River.
9. Anamosa
Anamosa, located in Jones County, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The town’s crime rate exceeds the national average, raising safety concerns for residents.
Economic opportunities in Anamosa are limited, with a higher unemployment rate compared to other Iowa cities. This lack of job prospects can make it difficult for residents to achieve financial stability.
The town’s educational system struggles to meet state standards, potentially affecting students’ academic progress and future opportunities. Limited access to quality healthcare services is another issue for Anamosa residents.
Anamosa’s infrastructure requires significant improvements. Many roads and public facilities are in need of repairs or updates, which can negatively impact daily life for inhabitants.
The town’s recreational options are scarce, leaving residents with few choices for entertainment and leisure activities. This lack of amenities can contribute to a lower quality of life for those living in Anamosa.
10. Keokuk
Keokuk, situated in southeast Iowa, faces significant challenges that impact its residents’ quality of life. The city’s economy has struggled in recent years, leading to a decline in job opportunities and population.
Keokuk’s unemployment rate exceeds the state average, contributing to financial hardship for many residents. The city’s median household income falls below Iowa’s average, limiting economic prospects for its inhabitants.
Crime rates in Keokuk are higher than the state average, raising concerns about public safety. Property crime, in particular, is a notable issue for residents and businesses alike.
The city’s aging infrastructure presents additional problems. Many roads and buildings require repairs or updates, straining local resources and potentially affecting daily life for residents.
Keokuk’s educational system faces challenges, with some schools underperforming compared to state standards. This may impact students’ academic opportunities and future prospects.
11. Ottumwa
Ottumwa, located in southeastern Iowa, faces significant challenges that affect its livability. The city has struggled with economic decline and job losses in recent years.
Unemployment rates in Ottumwa are higher than the state average. This has led to financial hardships for many residents and a decrease in local business activity.
Crime rates in Ottumwa are a concern for residents. Property crimes and drug-related offenses are particular issues that impact community safety.
The city’s infrastructure has seen better days. Some roads and public facilities require repairs or updates, which can affect daily life for residents.
Educational outcomes in Ottumwa’s schools lag behind state averages. This can limit opportunities for young people and make the area less attractive to families.
Ottumwa’s population has been declining, which can lead to reduced services and fewer amenities for those who remain in the city.
12. Des Moines
Des Moines, Iowa’s capital city, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The city struggles with a higher crime rate compared to the national average, particularly in certain neighborhoods.
Traffic congestion is a common issue during peak hours, leading to longer commute times and increased stress for residents. The city’s public transportation system is limited, making it difficult for those without personal vehicles to get around efficiently.
Des Moines experiences extreme weather conditions, with hot, humid summers and harsh winters. This can be uncomfortable for residents and lead to increased energy costs for heating and cooling.
The job market in Des Moines can be competitive, especially in certain industries. Some residents find it challenging to secure well-paying positions or advance their careers within the city.
Air quality in Des Moines is a concern, particularly during summer months when ozone levels can rise to unhealthy levels. This may affect residents with respiratory issues.
13. Cedar Rapids
Cedar Rapids faces significant challenges as one of Iowa’s less desirable places to live. The city struggles with a high crime rate, particularly property crimes, which exceeds national averages.
Economic instability plagues Cedar Rapids, with job opportunities limited in certain sectors. The unemployment rate remains higher than the state average, impacting residents’ financial security.
Air quality concerns persist due to industrial activities and vehicle emissions. This environmental issue affects the health and well-being of Cedar Rapids inhabitants.
The city’s infrastructure shows signs of aging, with some areas experiencing deteriorating roads and outdated public facilities. These issues contribute to a diminished quality of life for residents.
Cedar Rapids also grapples with occasional flooding from the Cedar River, causing property damage and disrupting daily life. This recurring natural hazard poses risks to homeowners and businesses alike.
14. Sioux City
Sioux City, located in northwestern Iowa, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The city has struggled with a declining population in recent years, which has affected its economic growth and job opportunities.
Crime rates in Sioux City are higher than the national average, particularly for property crimes. This has raised concerns about safety and security among residents.
The city’s air quality is a significant issue, with pollution from nearby industrial facilities contributing to poor air conditions. This can negatively affect the health of residents, especially those with respiratory problems.
Sioux City’s education system faces difficulties, with some schools underperforming compared to state averages. This can be a drawback for families considering moving to the area.
The city’s infrastructure requires attention, with aging roads and bridges in need of repair. This can lead to inconveniences for residents and potential safety hazards.
15. Marshalltown
Marshalltown, Iowa faces several challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The city has struggled with economic issues, including a decline in manufacturing jobs and limited employment opportunities.
Crime rates in Marshalltown are higher than the state average, raising concerns about safety. Property crime, in particular, has been a persistent problem for the community.
The city’s infrastructure has shown signs of aging, with some roads and public facilities in need of repair or upgrades. This can affect daily life and property values in certain areas.
Marshalltown’s education system has faced difficulties, with some schools performing below state averages. This may impact families considering the area for long-term residence.
The city experienced significant damage from a tornado in 2018, and recovery efforts have been ongoing. Some neighborhoods still show lingering effects of the disaster.
16. Muscatine
Muscatine, located along the Mississippi River, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The city struggles with air quality issues due to industrial emissions, particularly from nearby manufacturing plants.
Crime rates in Muscatine are higher than the state average, raising concerns about safety for residents. Property crime and theft are notable problems in certain areas of the city.
The local economy heavily relies on manufacturing, which can be vulnerable to economic fluctuations. This dependence limits job diversity and opportunities for residents seeking employment in other sectors.
Muscatine’s infrastructure needs improvement, with aging roads and bridges requiring attention. The city’s downtown area has experienced a decline in recent years, with vacant storefronts and a lack of vibrant businesses.
Educational outcomes in Muscatine’s public schools lag behind state averages, potentially affecting future prospects for students. The city also faces challenges in attracting and retaining young professionals, leading to concerns about long-term population growth and economic vitality.
17. Davenport
Davenport, Iowa’s third-largest city, faces several challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The city struggles with a higher crime rate compared to the national average, particularly in property crimes.
Davenport’s economy has experienced ups and downs, with some industries declining and leaving workers to seek new opportunities. This has contributed to pockets of poverty within the city.
The Mississippi River, while a scenic asset, poses flood risks to certain neighborhoods. Some areas have dealt with recurring flood damage, causing property losses and disruptions to daily life.
Traffic congestion during peak hours can be frustrating for commuters, especially on major thoroughfares. The city’s infrastructure, including roads and bridges, requires ongoing maintenance and upgrades.
Davenport’s public schools have shown mixed performance, with some institutions struggling to meet state standards. This educational inconsistency concerns parents and affects property values in certain areas.
18. Iowa City
Iowa City faces challenges despite its reputation as a college town. The cost of living exceeds the state average, particularly in housing. Many residents struggle with high rental prices and limited affordable options.
Traffic congestion plagues the city, especially during peak hours and university events. Parking can be scarce and expensive in popular areas. The influx of students each year strains local infrastructure and resources.
Crime rates in Iowa City are higher than the national average. Property crimes, including theft and burglary, are of particular concern. The city’s nightlife scene contributes to noise complaints and occasional disturbances.
Extreme weather poses another issue. Winters bring heavy snowfall and icy conditions, while summers can be hot and humid. Flooding has been a recurring problem in some neighborhoods.
Job opportunities outside the university sector can be limited. This lack of diversity in the job market may deter some potential residents.
19. Newton
Newton, located in Jasper County, faces challenges that contribute to its inclusion on this list. The town has experienced economic difficulties since the closure of major employer Maytag in 2007.
Unemployment rates in Newton remain higher than the state average. This has led to decreased property values and a shrinking tax base for the city.
Crime rates in Newton are above the national average, particularly for property crimes. This impacts residents’ sense of safety and security in the community.
The city’s aging infrastructure requires significant updates and repairs. Streets, water systems, and public facilities need substantial investment to meet current standards.
Newton’s public schools have struggled with declining enrollment and budget constraints. This has resulted in fewer resources and educational opportunities for students.
20. Perry
Perry, a small city in Dallas County, Iowa, faces several challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The town struggles with a declining population, which has led to reduced economic opportunities and a shrinking tax base.
Perry’s median household income falls below the state average, limiting financial prospects for many residents. The city also grapples with an aging infrastructure, including outdated roads and utilities that require significant investment.
Crime rates in Perry are higher than the state average, particularly for property crimes. This has raised concerns about community safety and security among residents.
The local education system faces difficulties, with some schools underperforming compared to state standards. This can affect students’ academic outcomes and future opportunities.
Limited recreational amenities and cultural attractions in Perry may contribute to a lack of entertainment options for residents, especially younger demographics.
Economic Challenges
Iowa’s economy faces several hurdles that impact residents’ financial well-being and quality of life. These challenges manifest in unemployment rates and job market trends across the state.
Unemployment Rates
Iowa’s unemployment rate varies significantly among different regions. Some cities struggle with rates higher than the state average. In 2024, cities like Fort Madison and Keokuk report unemployment rates of 5.8% and 6.2% respectively, compared to the state average of 3.9%.
Rural areas often experience higher joblessness due to limited economic diversification. Counties like Appanoose and Lee face persistent unemployment challenges, with rates reaching 7.1% and 6.8%.
The manufacturing sector, once a major employer, has seen job losses. This impacts cities like Newton and Ottumwa, where factory closures have led to spikes in unemployment.
Job Market Trends
Iowa’s job market shows uneven growth across industries and regions. The agricultural sector, a traditional economic pillar, faces pressures from commodity price fluctuations and trade uncertainties.
Urban centers like Des Moines and Cedar Rapids attract more diverse job opportunities in finance, insurance, and technology. However, smaller cities and rural areas struggle to compete for new businesses and skilled workers.
The healthcare industry grows steadily, but rural hospitals face financial strains. This creates disparities in job availability and access to medical services across the state.
Retail jobs decline as e-commerce expands, affecting employment in cities like Waterloo and Mason City. The gig economy rises, but often provides less stability and fewer benefits than traditional employment.
Quality of Life
Iowa’s quality of life varies significantly across different cities and towns. Crime rates and healthcare access are two key factors that impact residents’ daily experiences and overall wellbeing.
Crime Rates
Crime rates in Iowa’s least desirable areas tend to be higher than state and national averages. Some cities struggle with property crimes, while others face more violent offenses. For example, Council Bluffs reported 3,742 property crimes per 100,000 residents in 2023, nearly double the state average.
Davenport saw 1,102 violent crimes per 100,000 people, significantly above Iowa’s rate of 303. Neighborhoods in Des Moines, particularly on the east and north sides, have experienced increased gang activity and drug-related offenses in recent years.
Smaller towns aren’t immune to crime issues. Keokuk, with a population under 10,000, had a crime rate 158% higher than the national average in 2024.
Healthcare Access
Healthcare access in Iowa’s struggling communities often falls short of residents’ needs. Rural areas face particular challenges, with hospital closures and physician shortages limiting care options.
Fort Dodge lost its only maternity ward in 2023, forcing expectant mothers to travel over 60 miles for delivery services. In Ottumwa, the patient-to-primary care physician ratio is 2,340:1, far exceeding the state average of 1,375:1.
Mental health services are scarce in many areas. Waterloo has only 1 psychiatrist per 25,000 residents, compared to the recommended 1 per 10,000. Wait times for appointments can stretch to months.
Some positive initiatives exist. Telehealth programs have expanded in Clinton and Burlington, improving access to specialists. However, broadband limitations in rural areas often hinder these efforts.
Educational Opportunities
Iowa faces challenges in providing quality education across the state. Some areas struggle with underperforming schools and limited higher education options.
School Performance
Iowa’s K-12 education system shows mixed results. Many rural districts grapple with declining enrollment and funding shortages. This impacts teacher retention and program offerings.
Urban areas often have overcrowded classrooms and aging facilities. Test scores in some districts fall below state averages.
Top-performing schools cluster in wealthier suburbs. This creates educational disparities between communities. Some districts implement innovative programs to boost student achievement, but progress remains uneven.
Higher Education Options
Iowa’s higher education landscape offers limited choices in certain regions. The state has three public universities, located in Ames, Iowa City, and Cedar Falls.
Community colleges provide more accessible options but may lack specialized programs. Private colleges fill some gaps but often come with higher tuition costs.
Rural areas have fewer nearby higher education institutions. This can make pursuing a degree challenging for local residents. Online programs expand access but may not suit all students or fields of study.
Some regions lack robust vocational and technical training opportunities. This mismatch between education offerings and local job markets can hinder economic development.
