Cedar Rapids, IA Homes For Rent

Homes for Rent in Cedar Rapids, IA: What You Need to Know

Cedar Rapids, a city in eastern Iowa, lies on both banks of the Cedar River. Resident Grant Wood painted the iconic American Gothic in the city in 1930.

Things to Do in Cedar Rapids

The Cedar Rapids Museum of Art and The Grant Wood Studio are among the most popular destinations in the city. The museum houses the world’s largest collection of Wood’s works. He was born in Anamosa, Iowa, but lived in Cedar Rapids. The museum owns Wood’s studio, only three blocks away, where he painted the American Gothic. The painting won third prize in the Art Institute of Chicago’s 43rd Annual Exhibition of American Painting and Sculpture. 

Weather and Climate

Cedar Rapids receives about 36 inches of rain per year versus the U.S. average of 38 inches. The exception happened on June 13, 2008, when the Cedar River crested to 31.12 feet, the highest level in its history. The flood dislocated more than 18,000 residents and damaged the downtown area. The city averages 28 inches of snow annually, which is also the national average.

The Cost of Living in Cedar Rapids

Moving to Cedar Rapids? The city (population: 133,562) is quite affordable. Its cost of living, food, and housing costs are 7.2%, 22.8%, and 40.7% lower than the national average, respectively. The median gross rent in the city is $751; the median rent for a two-bedroom apartment is $810. Iowa’s income tax rate ranges from 0.33% to 8.53%. The state levies 6% to 7% in sales tax.

Know Your Neighborhoods

Residents praise the city’s safety, affordability, and amenities, including lots of trails and parks. New Bohemia is one of the most popular neighborhoods in Cedar Rapids. The devastation caused by the 2008 flood pushed the redevelopment of the neighborhood, bringing better housing options and new businesses. For suburbanites, Mount Vernon and Robins are within commuting distance of Cedar Rapids, and they are both known for their above-average schools. The lack of big-box retailers in these communities earns much kudos from residents who prefer locally-owned shops.

Job Opportunities

Collins Aerospace, a Raytheon Technologies subsidiary, is based in Cedar Rapids. It designs, manufactures, and services systems for the aviation industry. About 300 manufacturing plants and other Fortune 500 companies are also located in the city. Top employers in Cedar Rapids include AEGON (insurance), Quaker Oats, General Mills, and Cargill.