2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Jefferson, IA vs Iowa City, IA

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Highlights
Are people in Iowa City older or younger than people in Jefferson?
- The Median Age in Iowa City is 21.6 years younger than in Jefferson.

Are housing costs cheaper in Iowa City or Jefferson?
- Iowa City housing costs are 90.7% more expensive than Jefferson housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Iowa City or Jefferson?
- The average commute for residents of Iowa City is 0.1 minutes longer than it is for residents of Jefferson.

Things to do in Jefferson?
Living in Jefferson, IA is a truly unique experience. Located just west of Des Moines, this small town of about 4,500 has a lot to offer its residents. The downtown area offers quaint shops and restaurants that give the area its classic small-town feel. The locals are friendly and welcoming, often coming together for seasonal events such as outdoor concerts or local farmers markets. There is an abundance of outdoor activities around the town including fishing at nearby rivers, biking along the trails and hiking through the wooded areas. With low crime rates and a great school system, Jefferson is a safe and desirable place to live.

Things to do in Iowa City?
Iowa City, Iowa is a vibrant city located in the Midwestern United States. Home to attractions such as The University of Iowa and The Old Capitol Museum, visitors can explore outdoor activities and historical sites when visiting Iowa City. There are also plenty of museums, galleries, and performance venues such as The Kalona Historical Village and Studio Arts. For entertainment, visitors can explore boutique shops and restaurants along with movie theaters and live music clubs. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an exciting night out, Iowa City has something for everyone!

 Jefferson, IAIowa City, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock74,240329,725,481
 Median Income$45,230  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock26.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$139,400  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock3.5%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time16.98  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Jefferson    2 Reviews

Over 7 years ago

We moved to Jefferson from another state and love it here. We've been made to feel welcome by so many folks. People are kind here and there's a focus on the community.  More

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Over 11 years ago

Life is good in Jefferson. Low crime, low cost of living, small town friendliness, good access to health care, close enough to larger metropolitan amenities. Good  More

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Reviews for Iowa City    24 Reviews

Over 5 years ago

I was there 5 years. Nothing to do but we’ll go shopping... at Walmart. It lacks so many things. There is no experience here, it jumps on any political band wagon and  More

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Over 5 years ago

Entertainment lacks greatly - especially the Hancher shows. I was hoping after they rebuilt they would be getting better shows there, that didn't happen. One has to  More

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Over 7 years ago

Iowa City is great. It's diverse and never boring. There always a variety of new shops and restaurants to explore and try out. Also watching college kids do stupid  More

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