Moving to Iowa: A Relocation Guide
Thinking about moving to Iowa? Here's a practical starting point for newcomers.
Key facts
- Capital: Des Moines
- Largest city: Des Moines
- Population: 3,190,369 (2020 census)
- Nickname: The Hawkeye State
- Region: Midwest
What should you consider before moving to Iowa?
- Where to live: Major cities include Des Moines and the state capital Des Moines. See our Iowa state guide and city guides for details.
- Cost of living: Compare housing, utilities and taxes carefully — costs vary significantly across the state.
- Lifestyle: Iowa's midwest location shapes daily life, from climate to recreation. Explore the top things to do to get a feel for the state.
- Jobs & schools: Research local employers and school districts in your target city before committing.
City guides: Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, Davenport.
Frequently asked questions
What are the largest cities in Iowa?
The largest city in Iowa is Des Moines, and the capital is Des Moines. See the city guides for local detail.
What is the population of Iowa?
The 2020 census population of Iowa is 3,190,369 (2020 census).
What should I research before moving to Iowa?
Compare housing, utilities, taxes, jobs and school districts in your target city. The moving guide above and the Iowa state guide are a good starting point — verify current costs with local sources.
Next steps
This guide is a starting point — Red Rock Daily is building detailed, city-level relocation coverage across the country. For now, combine this overview with the Iowa state guide and local city pages.
Sources
U.S. Census Bureau (2020 census population figures); official state records. Cost-of-living details should be verified with current local data.