City Profile
Davenport, Iowa
USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Davenport, Iowa, is a vibrant city nestled along the Mississippi River, forming a significant part of the bi-state Quad Cities region. Founded in 1836, the city boasts a rich history and a unique character, known for its open riverfront without permanent flood walls, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere. People are drawn to Davenport for its blend of urban amenities and suburban comfort, offering a lower cost of living and a strong sense of community. The city is recognized for its cultural attractions, extensive recreational opportunities, and a growing food scene, making it an appealing place for both individuals and families seeking an affordable yet dynamic lifestyle.
Iowa, located in the Midwest, is characterized by its expansive farmlands and a generally relaxed, community-focused lifestyle. The state's economy is diverse, with major industries including advanced manufacturing, biosciences, finance and insurance, and its foundational agricultural sector, which leads in corn, soybean, ethanol, and pork production. Living in Iowa is notably affordable, with the cost of living, particularly housing, being significantly lower than the national average. The climate is humid continental, featuring hot, humid summers and cold winters, with seasonal precipitation and susceptibility to various natural disasters like snowstorms, floods, and tornadoes.
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Cost of Living
The cost of living in Davenport is notably more affordable than the national average, estimated to be around 9% lower. This affordability is a significant draw for residents, with housing expenses being a primary factor in the lower overall costs. Rent prices, in particular, are considerably below the national average, making it an attractive market for renters. While some costs like transportation might be slightly higher than the national average, groceries and utilities generally remain more affordable, contributing to a manageable cost of living for its residents.
Income
Salary Insights
Davenport's economy is diverse, with key industries including Manufacturing, Health Care & Social Assistance, and Retail Trade, which were the largest employers in 2024. The city's employment landscape saw a growth rate of 1.68% from 2023 to 2024, indicating a steady job market. While the Quad Cities metro area experienced some job losses in recent months of 2026, sectors like education and health services have shown consistent growth. The presence of major employers like Genesis Health System and educational institutions such as St. Ambrose University and Palmer College of Chiropractic contribute to a stable job environment.
The average salary in Davenport is $38,673 per year. You would need approximately $67,000 to live comfortably.
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Mobility
Transport
Getting around Davenport primarily relies on personal vehicles, with a significant majority of residents driving alone to work. The average one-way commute time is approximately 19.4 minutes, which is shorter than the national average. While the city has a Walk Score of 44, indicating that most errands require a car, some neighborhoods like Downtown and Gold Coast are more pedestrian-friendly. Public transit options are available through Davenport Citibus, but the overall car dependency remains medium to high due to limited bike lanes and the necessity of a car for many daily activities.
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