AI-Scored Rankings • Updated 2026-04-03

Best Apartments in Iowa City, IA — Scored by AI

ListWise scores every Iowa City neighborhood on safety, walkability, schools, commute time, and rental value. See which areas actually match your lifestyle — not just what's cheapest.

$1,050/mo
Median Rent
74,220
Population
8
Neighborhoods Scored
University of Iowa
Top Employer
Local Insights

Why Iowa City? What Renters Need to Know

Iowa City averages about $1,050 per month for a one-bedroom, elevated by university demand. Northside Marketplace and Near Southside run $1,050–$1,100, while outer areas like Hills offer options closer to $900.

Quick Facts

Population 74,220
Median Rent $1,050/mo
Top Employer University of Iowa
Neighborhoods 8 scored by AI
Rent vs. National$1,050 vs $1,500 national median

Rent Comparison

Iowa City median rent is $450 below the national median of $1,500/mo — an affordable market.

Largest Employer

The largest employer in Iowa City is University of Iowa, making the Northside Marketplace area and nearby neighborhoods popular for commuters looking to minimize travel time.

Top Neighborhoods

Top Neighborhoods in Iowa City

Ranked by ListWise's composite AI score. Top 3 shown free — unlock all 8 for the full picture.

#1

Northside Marketplace

Score: 87/100
Safety A-
Walk Score 90
Avg Rent $1,100
Schools 8/10
#2

Near Southside

Score: 84/100
Safety B+
Walk Score 88
Avg Rent $1,050
Schools 8/10
#3

Goosetown

Score: 82/100
Safety B
Walk Score 84
Avg Rent $1,000
Schools 7/10

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#4

Longfellow

Score: 83/100
Safety B+
Walk Score 78
Avg Rent $1,000
Schools 8/10
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#5

Manville Heights

Score: 80/100
Safety B
Walk Score 70
Avg Rent $950
Schools 7/10
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#6

Coralville

Score: 79/100
Safety B-
Walk Score 52
Avg Rent $950
Schools 7/10
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#7

North Liberty

Score: 82/100
Safety B+
Walk Score 36
Avg Rent $1,100
Schools 8/10
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#8

Hills

Score: 76/100
Safety B-
Walk Score 22
Avg Rent $900
Schools 7/10
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See All 8 Iowa City Neighborhoods Ranked

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How It Works

How ListWise Scores Iowa City Apartments

1

Tell Us Your Priorities

Rank what matters: safety, schools, walkability, commute, budget, nightlife. Every Iowa City renter is different.

2

AI Scores Every Listing

We pull real-time data from MLS, crime stats, school ratings, transit APIs, and walk score databases for Iowa City.

3

Get Your Ranked List

Receive a PDF + Excel report with Iowa City properties ranked by YOUR priorities. Delivered within 24 hours.

FAQ

Frequently Asked About Iowa City

What is the average rent in Iowa City?

Iowa City averages about $1,050 per month for a one-bedroom, elevated by university demand. Northside Marketplace and Near Southside run $1,050–$1,100, while outer areas like Hills offer options closer to $900.

Is Iowa City walkable?

Iowa City is exceptionally walkable by Iowa standards, with the Northside and Near Southside neighborhoods scoring 88–90 on Walk Score. The Pedestrian Mall and Ped Mall area near campus make car-free living genuinely viable for students and faculty.

What is the cultural scene like in Iowa City?

Iowa City is a UNESCO City of Literature, home to the Iowa Writers' Workshop, one of the world's most prestigious MFA programs. The city has a rich independent bookstore culture, thriving arts scene, and the Englert Theatre anchoring a vibrant entertainment district.

What are the best neighborhoods in Iowa City for families?

Longfellow and North Liberty are top choices for families, with excellent schools and safe streets. North Liberty in particular has been one of Iowa's fastest-growing communities and offers newer construction with top-rated schools.

Is Iowa City a good place to live after graduation?

Many University of Iowa graduates stay in Iowa City for its quality of life, affordable housing, and employment at the university and University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. The city's cultural richness and walkability make it appealing well beyond student years.

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Data is for informational purposes only. Verify all information independently before making housing decisions.