National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library in Cedar Rapids

Relocation guide

Moving to Cedar Rapids

What it costs, what the weather is like, schools, outdoors and the honest pros and cons, from public data.

Population

136,859

Median age 36.9

Median household income

$67,859

Median rent

$925/mo

Median home value

$177,100

Schools

53

3 districts

Summer high / winter low

83° / 11°

Pros

  • Homes cost 42% less than the US median ($177,100).
  • Rent takes only about 16% of the median household income.
  • Mild weather in May, August, September, with highs between 65°F and 85°F.
  • 39 national forests, lakes and recreation areas within reach.

Cons

  • Household incomes are 14% below the US median ($67,859).
  • Property taxes are high: about 1.71% of home value a year (US 0.98%).
  • Cold winters: January lows average 11°F.

Pros and cons come from comparisons with US medians and the city’s 30-year weather normals; they leave out things numbers can’t capture.

Plan your move

Where in Cedar Rapids?

Cedar Rapids spans 6 zip codes. Median home values range from $143,800 to $424,500 by zip.

Compare zip codes

See Cedar Rapids

Questions

Is Cedar Rapids a good place to live?

It depends on what you need. Homes cost 42% less than the US median ($177,100). Rent takes only about 16% of the median household income. On the other hand: Household incomes are 14% below the US median ($67,859). Property taxes are high: about 1.71% of home value a year (US 0.98%).

How much do I need to earn to live in Cedar Rapids?

The median household earns $67,859. Rent at the median ($925/month) is about 16% of that; a common rule of thumb is to keep rent under 30% of income, which means earning about $37,000 a year.

How many schools are in Cedar Rapids?

53 public and private schools across 3 districts. See the schools page for each school’s grades and contact details.

What is the weather like in Cedar Rapids?

Highs average 83°F in July and lows 11°F in January. The most comfortable months are May, August, September.

Sources: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2019–2023 5-year estimates; NOAA climate normals; NCES schools; OpenStreetMap parks; Recreation.gov.

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