Cedar Rapids

Cedar Rapids’ designation as the “City of Five Seasons” pays tribute to its changing seasons, and the perception that taking time to appreciate everyday beauty extends life – the same way an extra season would. Founded in 1849 in eastern Iowa, Cedar Rapids spans 72 square miles. Its median age is 36.5 (2022). Main industries include electronics, steel fabricating, tool and die making, and the manufacture and processing of agricultural and food products.

The city is dotted with single-family homes, duplex-style Ranch condos, and modern townhomes. The typical home value is $188,809, up 10.7% over the past year (Zillow, 2022). Several festivals, such as the Freedom Festival in June and July, the Cedar Rapids Beer Summit, and the Intercultural Festival, boost the city's appeal.

Major thoroughfares serving Cedar Rapids are I-380, which runs north-south, U.S. Highways 30, 151, 218, and Iowa Highway 13 and 100. I-380 and Highway 30 offer access to the neighborhood of Cedar Hills, where families live in older, well-established houses. Just north is Covington, a picturesque neighborhood that offers a calm, relaxed lifestyle.

There’s much to love about Cedar Rapids. Insurify (2021) recognized it as Iowa’s Best City for Young Families, based on the real-estate market, diversity in schools, accessibility to parks and outdoor activities, and residential and traffic safety.