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Bettendorf, Iowa

USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence

70
Overall Score

Bettendorf, Iowa, is a vibrant and rapidly growing community situated along the majestic Mississippi River as part of the Quad Cities metropolitan area. Founded in the 19th century and incorporated in 1903, the city has evolved from a quiet river town into a bustling suburban hub known for its exceptional school district, low crime rates, and scenic parks. Residents are drawn to Bettendorf for its unique blend of small-town charm and modern amenities, making it one of the most desirable places to live in the Midwest.

About Iowa

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.

40,200
Population
$68K
Avg Salary
92
Cost Index
70.2
Quality Score
How this 70/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
Component Readings used Points Weight Contributes
Safety Safety score: 82 / 100 82.0 30% 24.6
Affordability Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 92.0 53.8 25% 13.4
Economy & jobs Median household income: $91,500 Income needed to live here: $52,000 Unemployment rate: 3.6% 90.0 20% 18.0
Growth Population growth rate: 0.8% Job growth rate: 1.5% 47.5 15% 7.1
Business climate assessment Business climate assessment: 70 / 100 70.0 10% 7.0
Overall score 70.2

Provenance. These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as Tier 2 (reasoned) (q=54, partial — below threshold), last refreshed 16 October 2026. They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.

Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.

Businesses in Bettendorf

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Quality Scores

Business
70
Livability
79
Affordability
85
Growth
72

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Bettendorf remains comfortably below the national average, making it an attractive destination for families and professionals seeking financial breathing room. Housing, utilities, and grocery expenses are generally more affordable than in major coastal metropolitan areas, allowing residents to enjoy a high quality of life without excessive financial strain. While property taxes in Iowa can be on the higher side, the overall economic value offered by the city's housing market and local goods compensates for these state-level levies.

Average Rent
$1,350/mo
Groceries
$380/mo
Transport
$110/mo
Utilities
$170/mo
Healthcare
$220/mo
Gym membership (monthly)
$45.00
Cinema ticket
$12.00
Restaurant meal (mid-range)
$22.00
Monthly groceries
$380.00
Doctor visit (without insurance)
$150.00

Salary Insights

Bettendorf benefits from a diverse and resilient local economy tied closely to the broader Quad Cities labor market, featuring key sectors such as advanced manufacturing, healthcare, and finance. Major regional employers include manufacturing giants, healthcare networks like Genesis Health System, and numerous educational institutions that provide steady employment opportunities. Additionally, the city has seen a steady rise in remote workers and entrepreneurs who appreciate the strong digital infrastructure and supportive local business climate.

The average salary in Bettendorf is $68,000 per year. You would need approximately $52,000 to live comfortably.

Top Industries

Retail Trade +1.00% Manufacturing +1.10% Healthcare +2.40% Educational Services +1.50% Finance and Insurance +1.80%

Climate

🌡️
53°F
Avg Temp
☀️
84°F
Summer High
❄️
17°F
Winter Low
🌧️
29.30"
Annual Rain
💧
68.00%
Humidity
🌤️
270
Sunny Days

Transport

Getting around Bettendorf is primarily car-dependent, though the city offers well-maintained roadways and efficient connections to major highways like Interstate 74. Public transit is available through the Bettendorf Transit system and MetroLINK, linking residents to the broader Quad Cities region. While public transit options are limited compared to major transit hubs, walkability and biking infrastructure are expanding, particularly along the riverfront and downtown districts.

19 min
Avg Commute
35.00/10
Transit Score
42.00/10
Walkability
High
Car Dependency

Pros & Cons

Advantages
Violent crime rate is significantly lower than the national average per FBI crime data.
Median household income of over $90,000 provides strong purchasing power relative to the local cost of living.
Top-ranked Bettendorf Community School District consistently scores high in state academic evaluations.
Extensive recreational trail system along the Mississippi River enhances daily outdoor lifestyle.
Proximity to the Quad Cities metro area offers big-city amenities with a small-town suburban feel.
Drawbacks
Property tax rates in Iowa are relatively high compared to national averages.
Car dependency is high, with limited public transit options for daily commuting.
Winters feature significant snowfall (20.5 inches annually) and cold temperatures requiring winterization.
Limited nightlife and entertainment options directly within city limits compared to larger metropolitan hubs.
Housing inventory for first-time buyers can be tight during peak real estate seasons.

Questions about Bettendorf

What people ask about living in and moving to Bettendorf, Iowa.

How does Bettendorf's cost of living compare to the national average? Cost of Living 1 answer

Bettendorf’s cost of living index is 92, which is 8 points below the national average of 100. This means everyday expenses such as groceries, utilities, and transportation are roughly 8% lower than the U.S. average. Housing is a big contributor, with the average rent at $1,350/month, comfortably below many larger cities. Overall, you can expect to stretch your budget further here while still enjoying a good quality o...

What is the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Bettendorf? Housing 1 answer

The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Bettendorf is about $1,350 per month. Prices can vary depending on the neighborhood, amenities, and proximity to downtown or major highways. If you’re searching for a place, check local online listings and contact real estate agents who specialize in the area. They can give you current market trends and help you find a unit that fits your budget.

What is the average salary for professionals in Bettendorf? Jobs & Economy 1 answer

The average salary in Bettendorf is $68,000 per year. This figure reflects a mix of industries common in the region, such as manufacturing, logistics, and service sectors. While individual salaries vary by role and experience, this average gives a realistic expectation for most mid-level professionals. For specific job openings, consult local job boards or the city’s employment resources.

How are the public schools in Bettendorf rated? Schools & Education 1 answer

Public schools in Bettendorf generally receive solid ratings, with many students performing at or above state averages. The district offers a range of elementary, middle, and high schools, and parents can review performance reports and school rankings on the district’s website. Additionally, community feedback and local parent groups often provide insights into school culture and extracurricular opportunities.

Is Bettendorf a safe place to live? Safety 1 answer

Bettendorf has a safety score of 82 out of 100, indicating a relatively safe environment compared to national averages. Crime statistics show lower rates of violent crime and a moderate property crime level. Residents often cite the community’s active neighborhood watch programs and local police presence as contributing factors to the city’s safety. For the latest crime data, check the city’s official public safety r...

What public transportation options are available in Bettendorf? Getting Around 1 answer

Bettendorf is served by a local transit authority that offers bus routes connecting the city to neighboring communities and major employment centers. The routes typically run from early morning until late evening, with some express services during peak commute times. Riders can purchase passes or use mobile payment options. For schedules, route maps, and fare information, visit the transit authority’s website or cont...

Where can I find good medical care near Bettendorf? Healthcare 1 answer

The region around Bettendorf has several healthcare facilities, including community hospitals, urgent care centers, and specialty clinics. These establishments offer primary care, diagnostic services, and various specialties. To find a provider that fits your needs, look up local hospital directories, read patient reviews, or consult your health insurance network. Many facilities also provide online appointment sched...

What are some popular outdoor activities in Bettendorf? Things to Do 1 answer

Bettendorf offers a range of outdoor options, from riverfront trails along the Mississippi to local parks with playgrounds and picnic areas. Seasonal events such as farmers markets, festivals, and outdoor concerts also draw residents and visitors. For a calendar of activities and park information, check the city’s recreation department website or community bulletin boards.

What is the best time of year to move to Bettendorf? Moving Here 1 answer

Spring and early fall are ideal for moving to Bettendorf. The weather is mild, making packing and transportation easier, and rental demand is lower than during peak summer months. Additionally, utility companies often offer better rates for new customers during these off‑peak periods. Plan your move around local school calendars and seasonal events to avoid crowds.

What makes Bettendorf unique compared to other Midwest towns? General 1 answer

Bettendorf blends small‑town charm with convenient access to larger urban centers. Its riverfront setting provides scenic views and recreational opportunities, while the downtown area offers a mix of local shops, eateries, and community events. The city’s moderate cost of living, steady employment opportunities, and family‑friendly environment contribute to a welcoming atmosphere. Residents often highlight the sense...

Some answers here were drafted as a starting point and may be out of date. Live in Bettendorf? Add your own.

Frequently Asked Questions

Urblytica benchmarks its Cost of Living Index against a United States national average baseline of 100. A score of 115 means a city is approximately 15% more expensive than the national average, while a score of 85 indicates it is 15% more affordable. This composite calculation is weighted across six primary expenditure categories: housing, utilities, grocery items, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous goods.

Urblytica aggregates housing data from multiple authoritative sources, including Multiple Listing Service (MLS) feeds, municipal property tax registries, the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey (ACS), and verified historical deed transactions. This multi-tier aggregation ensures precision in tracking median home values and rental rates.

A municipality must meet minimum data-density thresholds—including consistent reporting population samples from the U.S. Census and active residential or commercial real estate transaction feeds—to ensure statistical significance before a complete scoring profile is published.

When primary agencies (such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics or U.S. Census Bureau) issue historical data revisions or benchmark corrections, Urblytica's data pipeline automatically re-indexes affected historical archives to maintain longitudinal trend accuracy.

U.S. affordability calculations incorporate federal income tax brackets, state-specific income tax rates, and local municipal tax variations to evaluate the true net tax drag on median household earnings across different states and cities.

Local county and municipal property tax millage rates are factored directly into the housing component of the cost-of-living index to reflect recurring annual tax burdens for homeowners.

The platform aggregates state sales taxes alongside county and city surtaxes to measure consumer basket purchasing power parity accurately across different retail jurisdictions.

Utility calculations apply regional seasonal consumption weightings, incorporating high summer air conditioning loads in southern states and heavy winter heating demands in northern states.

The index tracks average out-of-pocket healthcare expenses, routine outpatient visit costs, and regional health insurance premium benchmarks published by federal health agencies.

Educational metrics aggregate state standardized testing benchmarks, student-to-teacher ratios, high school graduation rates, and per-pupil expenditure data published by state departments of education.

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