Apartments for Rent in Iowa

Iowa

Iowa is part of the U.S. Midwest "corn belt", and produces fully 10% of our nation's food supply. From hogs and cattle to corn and soybeans, this is one of the great farming regions of the United States. Does this mean you can't find a nice little city apartment in Iowa? Not at all!

Although there are nearly 94,000 farms in Iowa, you can also find employment in several mid-sized cities such as Des Moines, Iowa City, Cedar Rapids and Council Bluffs. These cities are small by national standards (200,000 residents or less), but offer plenty of culture in a family-friendly atmosphere.

The economy that isn't agricultural focuses on food products, machinery (particularly, not surprisingly, farm equipment), smaller publishing houses and ethanol production. In the last few years, Des Moines has also become a hub for the insurance industry. One of the greatest advantages of living in an Iowa city is the low unemployment backed by some of the lowest crime rates in the nation.

Outdoor Attractions

Miles and miles of gently rolling countryside and prairies give Iowa a natural beauty that reminds visitors of pioneer days. The Mississippi and Missouri Rivers are unspoiled and gorgeous here, with boating enthusiasts and fishermen taking to the shores year round. There are also several significant lakes, including Spirit Lake, West Okoboji Lake and East Okoboji Lake.

Iowa is also known for its beautiful scenic trails and drives, including historic passages such as the Mormon Trail and the Lewis and Clark Trail. In the more rural areas of Iowa you'll discover small Amish and Mennonite communities and may find yourself driving behind a horse and buggy on any of the roads criss-crossing farm country. With four distinct seasons ranging from snowy winters to warm, sunny summers that fade into crisp falls, Iowa reflects some of the best of the U.S. climates.

Colleges and Universities

Iowa State University, the University of Iowa and the University of Northern Iowa are state schools and have outstanding research facilities, somewhat of a surprise in this rural state. Costs are some of the most reasonable in the country. The state also has several dozen private colleges and universities; many of these are affiliated with particular church denominations, including the predominant Lutheran Church.

Real Estate and Housing

Land itself isn't cheap in Iowa if you are buying by the acre – the farmland is rich and lush, a valuable agricultural commodity. Houses and apartments in Iowa, however, are a bargain. Even in the largest cities in Iowa, apartments cost only about 85% of the national average. In smaller communities apartments in Iowa can be found of as little as $475 for a one bedroom place. For this price you're getting a very good place because Iowa's building codes and housing regulations are some of the strictest in the country. Couple this with low medical costs and cost of living and you can rest assured an apartment in Iowa is a great place to live!