From rolling cornfields to bustling city streets, Iowa offers a unique blend of rural charm and urban convenience. But have you ever wondered how bike-friendly its cities are?
In this Redfin article, we delve into the most bikeable cities in the Hawkeye State, exploring the ease of pedaling from one destination to another. So, strap on your helmet and join us as we cycle through Iowa’s top cities for biking enthusiasts.
All data sourced January 2024.
1. Ames, IA
Bike Score: 69
Median Sale Price: $269,000
Median Rent Price: $960
With a bike score of 69, Ames is the most bikeable city in Iowa. The region boasts several cyclist-friendly neighborhoods, like Somerset and Northridge Parkway. These areas contain bike lanes and plenty of attractions accessible by bike. Ames is also home to the annual Ames Grand Prix, a popular cycling race that attracts participants from across the state.
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2. Iowa City, IA
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Bike Score: 66
Median Sale Price: $275,000
Median Rent Price: $1,460
Iowa City has a bike score of 66, making it the second most bikeable city in the state. There are bikeable roads, neighborhoods, and trails throughout Iowa City, like the Iowa River Corridor Trail and the North Ridge Trail, helping make the city accessible without a car.
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3. Cedar Falls, IA
Bike Score: 56
Median Sale Price: $268,000
Median Rent Price: $1,085
Cedar Falls is the third most bikeable city in the state. Particularly bikeable areas in Cedar Falls include College Hill and the Cedar Valley Nature Trail. These places are home to destinations like the UNI-Dome, Scratch Cupcakery, and the Hearst Center for the Arts.
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4. Mason City, IA
Bike Score: 50
Median Sale Price: $150,000
Median Rent Price: $1,200
Mason City has plenty of amenities a cyclist needs to succeed, including bike paths, local parks, and wide residential streets. Particularly bikeable streets include State Street and Federal Avenue. So, whether you’re in the mood for commuting or a leisurely ride, you’re sure to find a route that works for you.
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5. Waterloo, IA
Bike Score: 47
Median Sale Price: $159,000
Median Rent Price: $765
As the fifth most bikeable city in the state, Waterloo is known for its extensive trail system and the Cedar Valley Lakes Trail. Cycle to George Wyth State Park or get a bite to eat at Galleria De Paco with friends after a group ride. And if you’re in the mood for an adventure, head to Hartman Reserve Nature Center.
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6. Marshalltown, IA
Bike Score: 47
Median Sale Price: $142,500
Median Rent Price: $950
Marshalltown, with amenities like wide residential streets and brunch shops, is the sixth most bikeable city in Iowa. Consider taking a ride with friends to enjoy the views at Grimes Farm and Conservation Center or the Marshalltown Bike Path. If you’re a commuter, take advantage of the wide roads like Center Street and Anson Street.
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7. Coralville, IA
Bike Score: 46
Median Sale Price: $247,000
Median Rent Price: $990
With a Bike Score of 46, Coralville is the seventh most bikeable city in Iowa. Coralville has plenty of amenities a cyclist might need, from wide open roads like 5th Street, to gorgeous destinations like Coralville Lake. Consider riding with friends, commuting to work, or starting a weekly cycling group.
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8. Council Bluffs, IA
Bike Score: 45
Median Sale Price: $190,000
Median Rent Price: $990
Known for its historic Squirrel Cage Jail and the Union Pacific Railroad Museum, Council Bluffs is the eighth most bikeable city in Iowa. With mild hills, bike lanes, and plenty of amenities cyclists love, there’s something for every rider. If you’re in the mood for an adventure, consider cycling to Lake Manawa State Park or the Wabash Trace Nature Trail.
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9. Fort Dodge, IA
Bike Score: 42
Median Sale Price: $95,000
Median Rent Price: $800
Fort Dodge has a bike score of 42, making it the ninth most bikeable city in the state. There are a number of parks in Fort Dodge, like Snell-Crawford Park and Oleson Park, that are great cycling destinations. You can also stop at Central Perk for a mid-ride snack.
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10. Cedar Rapids, IA
Bike Score: 41
Median Sale Price: $189,950
Median Rent Price: $820
According to Walk Score, Cedar Rapids is the tenth most bikeable city in the state. The area has many great spots for cyclists, like the Cedar River Trail, Mount Vernon Road, and Brewed Awakenings. Consider planning a route and commuting to work or school if you’re able.
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Methodology: Walk Score, a Redfin company, helps people find walkable, bikeable, and transit-friendly places to live, rating areas on a scale from 0-100. To calculate a Bike Score for a city, Walk Score measures a location’s bikeability using four equally weighted components: Bike lanes; hills; destinations and road connectivity; and bike commuting and mode share. Points are awarded based on importance and are weighted based on total amounts. Bike Score does not take into account access to restaurants, grocery stores, parks, or other amenities. Bike Score uses data from OpenStreetMap, USGS, and the Census Bureau.
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