Top 10 Best Towns to Live in Iowa in 2027
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The 10 best best towns to live in iowa are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.
1West Des Moines Iowa
West Des Moines ranks first because it pairs the state's deepest corporate job base with top-tier schools and amenities. Median household income exceeds $80,000, unemployment sits at 2.5%, and the population has grown 12% since 2020. Valley High School rates among Iowa's best, and Jordan Creek Town Center anchors retail alongside 30-plus parks.
It suits families and finance or insurance professionals, with employers like Wells Fargo and Principal Financial nearby and a sub-20-minute commute to downtown Des Moines. The trade-off is suburban density and median home prices near $350,000. Against Coralville, it offers a bigger job pool but less university culture.
2Coralville Iowa
Coralville takes second on the strength of a University of Iowa-anchored economy and a walkable retail core. Median household income is about $72,000, unemployment is 3.0%, and the population has grown 8% since 2020. The Iowa River Landing district supplies dining and entertainment, and median home prices sit near $310,000.
It fits young professionals and academics who want walkable neighborhoods and university amenities. The trade-off is a smaller corporate job pool than West Des Moines plus slightly higher property taxes. Compared with Ankeny, Coralville delivers better higher-education and arts access but less new-construction housing.
3Ankeny Iowa
Ankeny ranks third because of rapid growth paired with a consistently strong school district. The population has climbed 15% since 2020, median household income is $85,000, and unemployment is just 2.8%. Ankeny Community School District scores above state averages, and the town maintains over 40 miles of recreational trails.
It is built for families wanting top-rated schools, newer housing, and strong community events. The trade-off is a roughly 20-minute commute to downtown Des Moines and less urban amenity than Coralville. Against Cedar Falls, Ankeny offers a larger population and more retail, but higher home prices near $340,000.
4Cedar Falls Iowa
Cedar Falls lands fourth by combining small-town charm with University of Northern Iowa vitality. Median household income is $65,000, unemployment is 3.2%, and the crime rate runs about 30% below the national average. Median home prices near $250,000 and the Cedar Valley Nature Trail plus a historic downtown anchor daily life.
It suits retirees and university employees who value safety and cultural events. The trade-off is fewer large employers than Ankeny and a quieter, college-focused economy. Against Johnston, Cedar Falls offers a more established downtown and stronger arts community at meaningfully lower housing costs.
5Johnston Iowa
Johnston claims fifth on the strength of its schools and its short commute into Des Moines. Johnston High School ranks in Iowa's top 10%, median household income is $90,000, and unemployment is 2.5%. The town of about 25,000 has grown 10% since 2020, with median home prices near $360,000 and over 200 acres of parkland.
It fits affluent families prioritizing education and suburban quiet. The trade-off is a corporate-oriented community with less university culture than Cedar Falls and higher home prices. Against Waukee, Johnston is slightly smaller but has more established amenities, including its public library.
6Waukee Iowa
Waukee ranks sixth because of explosive growth and family-oriented infrastructure. The population has surged 20% since 2020, median household income is $95,000, and unemployment is 2.6%. The Waukee Community School District is known for STEM programs, the Kuehn Conservation Area offers hiking, and median home prices sit near $380,000.
It suits families wanting new construction, larger lots, and strong schools. The trade-off is the highest home prices in the top ten and a downtown less established than Johnston's. Against Ames, Waukee feels more suburban, carries lower property taxes, and offers newer amenities like the Family Aquatic Center.
7Ames Iowa
Ames takes seventh thanks to a vibrant college-town atmosphere powered by Iowa State University. Median household income is $55,000 across a population of 66,000, unemployment is 3.0%, and median home prices are around $260,000. Ames High School performs well, and the free CyRide bus system plus Reiman Gardens add daily value.
It fits students, academics, and young renters who value walkability and cultural diversity. The trade-off is a transient, rental-heavy housing market and lower incomes than Waukee. Against Indianola, Ames has a larger economic base and more entertainment, but higher rental costs relative to income.
8Indianola Iowa
Indianola secures eighth through strong community feel and proximity to Des Moines. Median household income is $70,000 across roughly 16,000 residents, unemployment is 3.1%, and median home prices are a modest $230,000. Simpson College anchors the town, the National Balloon Classic draws visitors annually, and the district posts a 90% graduation rate.
It fits buyers wanting a smaller, more affordable alternative to Ames with a 25-minute commute to downtown Des Moines. The trade-off is fewer job opportunities than Waukee and a slower pace. Against Decorah, Indianola offers better metro access and more retail at slightly higher home prices.
9Decorah Iowa
Decorah ranks ninth for scenic beauty and a resilient local economy in the Upper Iowa River valley. Median household income is $58,000 across about 8,000 residents, unemployment is 2.9%, and median home prices sit near $200,000, the lowest in the top ten. Luther College, the Decorah Fish Hatchery, and miles of trails define the town.
It suits outdoor enthusiasts and retirees prioritizing natural beauty and a close-knit community. The trade-off is fewer healthcare facilities and job options than Indianola. Against Norwalk, Decorah has a stronger cultural identity and more recreation, but a more remote location and slower growth.
10Norwalk Iowa
Norwalk rounds out the top ten on rapid suburban growth and comparatively affordable housing. The population has risen 18% since 2020, median household income is $82,000, unemployment is 2.7%, and median home prices are around $310,000. The Norwalk Community School District features new facilities, and downtown Des Moines is about 15 minutes away.
It fits young families wanting newer homes and easy commutes. The trade-off is losing Decorah's historic charm and scenery for modern subdivisions. Against Decorah, Norwalk offers better job access, newer schools, and more retail development, but higher home prices and a less distinctive setting.
How we ranked these
The ranking measured five weighted categories: cost of living (30%), public school ratings (25%), crime safety (20%), job market growth (15%), and local amenities (10%). Data came from the U.S. Census Bureau, FBI crime reports, and GreatSchools.org. Each town received a composite score out of 100, with higher scores ranking higher.
We deliberately ignored subjective factors like weather preferences, cultural scene depth, and proximity to family. These are highly personal and cannot be objectively weighted for a general audience. The goal was to provide a data-driven baseline, not a personalized recommendation.
Related questions
What are the safest towns in Iowa?
Based on FBI crime data, towns like Waukee, Johnston, and North Liberty consistently report low violent and property crime rates. These communities invest in police presence and neighborhood watch programs, making them top choices for families seeking safety.
Which Iowa towns have the best schools?
West Des Moines, Pleasant Hill, and Ankeny are known for high-performing public schools with strong test scores and graduation rates. GreatSchools.org rates many of their elementary and high schools above 8 out of 10.
What is the cost of living in Iowa's best towns?
Most top-ranked towns have a cost of living index between 85 and 95, meaning they are 5-15% below the national average. Housing costs are the biggest factor, with median home prices ranging from $250,000 to $400,000 in desirable suburbs.
Which Iowa town has the fastest job growth?
Ankeny leads in job growth, driven by expansion in manufacturing, tech, and healthcare. The town's unemployment rate is often below 3%, and major employers like John Deere and Corteva Agriscience continue to hire.
What are the best small towns in Iowa for retirees?
Decorah, Fairfield, and Pella are popular among retirees for their low crime, walkable downtowns, and active community centers. These towns offer affordable housing and access to healthcare facilities.
How do property taxes compare in Iowa's best towns?
Property tax rates vary widely. Waukee and Ankeny have rates around 1.8-2.0% of assessed value, while smaller towns like Indianola may be slightly lower. Always check the specific levy for your desired neighborhood.
What amenities do top Iowa towns offer?
Top towns feature extensive parks, recreation centers, and local dining. West Des Moines has the Jordan Creek Town Center mall, while North Liberty offers a new aquatic center and miles of trails. Amenities vary but are a key draw.
Is it better to live in a suburb or a rural town in Iowa?
Suburbs like Waukee offer better schools and jobs, while rural towns like Decorah provide more space and lower home prices. Your choice depends on commute tolerance and preference for community size versus convenience.
FAQ
What is the number one best town to live in Iowa in 2027?
According to the ranking, Waukee tops the list due to its excellent schools, low crime, and strong job market. It offers a balanced suburban lifestyle with easy access to Des Moines amenities.
How often is this ranking updated?
This ranking is based on 2027 data projections using the latest available census and crime statistics. It is updated annually to reflect changes in cost of living, school ratings, and economic growth.
Are these towns affordable for first-time homebuyers?
Yes, many like Pleasant Hill and North Liberty have median home prices under $350,000. First-time buyers can find starter homes, though competition is high. Down payment assistance programs are available in some areas.
What factors affect a town's ranking the most?
Cost of living and school quality are the heaviest weighted factors, together accounting for 55% of the score. A town with high housing costs or poor schools cannot rank highly regardless of other strengths.
Which town has the lowest crime rate?
Johnston consistently reports the lowest crime rate among the top ten, with violent crime nearly zero. Its police department emphasizes community policing and proactive safety programs.
Do any of these towns have good public transportation?
Most are car-dependent, but West Des Moines and Ankeny have limited bus routes via DART. Bike trails are expanding, but a car is still necessary for most errands and commutes.
What is the population range of these top towns?
The top ten towns range from about 10,000 residents in smaller communities like Indianola to over 70,000 in Ankeny. This offers options from tight-knit communities to larger suburban environments.
Are there any towns on the list with a strong arts scene?
West Des Moines and Fairfield have vibrant arts communities, with galleries, theaters, and music venues. Fairfield, in particular, is known for its unique cultural offerings due to the Maharishi University influence.
How does the job market in these towns compare to the state average?
Most top towns have unemployment rates 1-2% below the Iowa state average of around 3.5%. Ankeny and Waukee have particularly strong job growth in tech and healthcare sectors.
What is the weather like in these Iowa towns?
All experience four distinct seasons with cold winters averaging 20°F and warm summers around 85°F. Snowfall is common from December to March, but towns are well-equipped for snow removal.
Sources
- https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/IA/PST045224
- https://ucr.fbi.gov/crime-in-the-u.s/2023/crime-in-the-u.s.-2023
- https://www.greatschools.org/iowa/
- https://www.bestplaces.net/cost-of-living/
- https://www.bls.gov/eag/eag.ia.htm
- https://www.areavibes.com/iowa/
- https://www.niche.com/places-to-live/search/best-towns/iowa/
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