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The Quad Cities are one of Illinois and Iowa’s’ largest metropolitan areas. The area has been voted both a Top 10 Place for Millennials to Live and the #3 Best Affordable Place to Live according toU.S. News & World Report. Although there is a total population of nearly 400,000 people in the greater Quad City area, don’t be fooled by this seemingly large number. The area is not only affordable, but laid-back, welcoming, and will always feel like home.
The Quad Cities have such a quirky and genuine charm that it’s truly hard to beat finding anywhere else that makes you feel this comfortable. Welcoming, ambitious, and fondly known as the Connection to the World, the Quad Cities check all the boxes for quality of life when looking for a new place to put down your roots.
The Quad Cities consist of three cities in IL—Rock Island, East Moline and Moline—and two cities in IA—Bettendorf and Davenport. It boasts a supportive community, tons of employment opportunities, education, housing options, and a variety of nightlife options and outdoor recreation activities.
The cost of living is 16% below the national average and is the third more diversified metro economy in the U.S. What it all comes down to is this—moving to a new city can be challenging—but it all depends on the people. No matter where you live in the Quad Cities region, you will be accepted, welcomed, and extended a network to help you get involved in the community. This region inspires new residents to explore more, dig their heels in, and enjoy lucrative career opportunities with a low cost of living.
The Quad Cities is home to award-winning schools and universities, including the world’s founding chiropractic college. The region has a nationally recognized K-12 education system with diverse program offerings, access to highly regarded post-secondary institutions, and an average of 40% of the metro population holds a post-secondary degree. With 40 higher education institutions within a 90-mile radius, it’s no surprise that it sees at least 40,000 graduates per year and is #1 in the nation for high graduation rates.
The Quad Cities region has a growing workforce that’s 580,000 strong and counting. Half of the workforce-age residents (15-64 years old) are Gen Z and Millennials. With an average commute time of just 16 minutes, it’s no surprise this area consistently makes the “Best of” and “Best Places to Live” lists. In fact, it’s ranked as #29 of America’s Best Small Cities.
Various incentives and funding types are available for businesses in the Quad Cities region, too. With bi-state jurisdiction (Illinois and Iowa), there are more programs and opportunities accessible for qualifying companies, and the region itself is even working to become 100% powered by renewable energy.
The Quad Cities is home to Fortune 500 companies like John Deere plus 150 others on Fortune’s 500 and 1000 lists including the Rock Island Arsenal—a major military installation. The region has experienced a 5.2% increase in economic strength over the past five years, including $1.5 billion in total capital investment, plus the creation of 4,500 new jobs.
There are plenty of things for families and young professionals to keep them busy, particularly when it comes to outdoor activities, with the Mighty Mississippi providing a breathtaking backdrop to it all.
Free concerts light up the night, outdoor-focused events get people excited to embrace a healthier mindset, and the architecture of the city itself is seamlessly integrated into the infrastructure so beautifully that it is special to the Quad Cities and the Quad Cities alone.
During the warmer months, catch a River Bandits game at iconic Modern Woodman Field or take a stroll down one of the many beautiful river walks. The Quad Cities boasts over 100 miles of hiking/biking trails along the river and through verdant nature reserves. In the later part of the year, residents can hit the slopes at SnowStar Ski Park or stop by the TaxSlayer Center for a minor league hockey game.
From theaters, ballets, and symphony orchestras to art exhibitions, science fairs, minor league sports, and museums, not to mention all the live music, bars, community events, and more, the Quad Cities are truly some of the best places to live nationwide. Whether you enjoy city life or a quieter country setting, there is something for you here.
If you are ready to start your real estate buying or selling journey, browse the newest homes for sale the Quad Cities. You can also contact us—we are here to help!
In 1832, General Winfield Scott and Sauk Chief Keokuk signed a treaty that effectively ended the Black Hawk War. More and more settlers arrived in what would become the Quad Cities because of the reliability and efficiency of the riverboat. As the Industrial Revolution exploded on the East Coast, many wealthy developers saw the Quad Cities as a viable option to put factories because of the raging Mississippi. In 1848, John Deere moved his operations to Moline, which later would be the main economic driving force. To cater to the westward expansion, the Rock Island Railroad company built the first bridge over the Mississippi in 1856.
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