Relocating to Bettendorf, Iowa?
Thinking of moving to Bettendorf, Iowa? You’re not alone.
Bettendorf has become one of the most sought-after cities in the Quad Cities region—and for good reason. But if you’re relocating from out of town (or out of state), it can be tough to figure out exactly where to live, what the neighborhoods are like, and how to navigate the city.
That’s why I made a detailed, map-based tour of Bettendorf—breaking down the major roads, most popular neighborhoods, new developments, and even school boundaries—so you can feel like a local before you even get here.
Let’s jump in.
🧭 Where Is Bettendorf?
Bettendorf is one of the four main cities that make up the Quad Cities, along with Davenport, Moline, and Rock Island. Located right along the Mississippi River, Bettendorf sits on the Iowa side and is known for its excellent schools, fast-growing developments, and a strong sense of community.
🚗 How to Get Around Bettendorf
Let’s talk roads, because you’ll want to know how to get around before your GPS starts screaming at you.
Major Interstates:
I-80 (northern boundary of Bettendorf)
I-74 (slices through town and connects to the new I-74 Bridge)
Main North/South Roads:
Devils Glen Road – Connects the riverfront to Forest Grove and everything in between.
Middle Road – Not quite north/south or east/west… it curves through the city and connects to several other key roads.
Key East/West Roads:
Forest Grove Drive – A newer road that runs through the fast-developing northern section.
53rd Avenue – Also connects into Davenport, making it a big commuter route.
Neighborhood Anchors:
Tanglefoot Lane and Crow Creek Road – Not major arteries, but they’re great neighborhood landmarks when you’re lost in cul-de-sac heaven.
🏡 The 3 Sections of Bettendorf: Which One Fits You?
1. North Bettendorf: Where the Growth Is
Think new homes, shiny buildings, and fast development.
This is where you'll find:
TBK Bank Sports Complex
BettPlex (Bettendorf’s version of a downtown entertainment hub)
Restaurants and Breweries like Central Standard, Twin Span Brewing, Iron Tee Golf, and more
New subdivisions and builds (many were cornfields just 5 years ago)
💰 Price tag: On the higher end—this is Bettendorf’s priciest area, but for good reason.
2. Central Bettendorf: The Residential Sweet Spot
Split-level homes, mature trees, and mid-century charm.
This area includes:
Established neighborhoods with homes from the 1960s–1980s
Amenities like the Family Museum, Bettendorf Library, Hy-Vee, and Wendy’s
The beloved Tanglwood, a hotspot restaurant with summer concerts and local charm
If you're looking for a balance of affordability, location, and community—this is it.
3. South Bettendorf: Classic Charm by the River
Older homes, walkable streets, and a rapidly evolving downtown.
Here's what makes South Bettendorf stand out:
Historic homes dating back to the 1930s and 40s
A revitalized downtown thanks to the new I-74 Bridge
Apartment living at The Bridges, with gorgeous river views
More affordable pricing for homes while still offering access to all that Bettendorf offers
💡 Pro Tip: Riverdale and Panorama Park are tiny enclaves within Bettendorf with their own city councils. It’s quirky, but it’s all part of the local charm.
🏫 Let’s Talk Schools (Because They Matter)
Bettendorf has two highly-rated school districts:
Pleasant Valley – Ranked #1 in Iowa on Niche.com
Bettendorf School District – Ranked #2 in the Quad Cities
But here’s the tricky part: the lines are weird.
Some neighborhoods with Davenport addresses feed into Bettendorf schools, and some streets are split—literally one side is Pleasant Valley, and the other is Bettendorf.
Your best move? Call a local expert (that’s me) who can help make sure you're buying in the school zone you actually want.
💬 Final Thoughts
Bettendorf may only have around 40,000 people, but it punches way above its weight when it comes to livability, schools, amenities, and growth.
Whether you're drawn to the new builds up north, the family-friendly vibe in central, or the historic charm near the river, there’s a place for you in Bettendorf—you just need to know where to look.
👉 Want help finding that perfect home and neighborhood? I’m a licensed Realtor in both Iowa and Illinois and I specialize in helping people relocate to the Quad Cities. Give me a call or shoot me a text—I’d love to help you land the perfect spot.
Alex Skeen
563-554-2829
