Moving to Davenport, Iowa? Here's the 2025 Guide You Need

Moving to Davenport???

If you're thinking about moving to Davenport, Iowa in 2025, this guide will give you a detailed, honest look at what to expect. From schools and shopping centers to parks, restaurants, and neighborhoods, we’re covering all the essentials—so you can make your move with confidence.

Let’s start with a quick overview of the layout. Davenport is part of the Quad Cities and is bordered by I-74, I-80, I-280, and the Mississippi River. It’s the largest of the four cities in the region and offers a mix of historic charm and modern development.

One of the most common questions people ask when relocating here is about schools. Davenport has three main high schools: Davenport North, Central, and West. Davenport North is located just north of 53rd Street, close to the major corridors of Harrison and Brady Streets (which, by the way, are one-way streets heading in and out of downtown). Central High School sits just south of Vander Veer Park and is the oldest of the three, with its classic architecture reflecting Davenport’s roots near the riverfront. Meanwhile, West High School is located near the Mississippi Valley Fairgrounds. Of the three, West has more of a suburban feel and newer facilities.

Beyond schools, another big concern for newcomers is shopping and convenience. The most prominent shopping corridor is along Elmore Avenue on the north side of town. You’ll find everything from Walmart and Target to Costco, Best Buy, Sam’s Club, Lowe’s, and more. This stretch of road is also packed with dining options, car dealerships, and big box retailers—it’s really the commercial heartbeat of Davenport.

But if you’re looking for something a little more local, you’ll enjoy the boutiques in the Village of East Davenport. It's a charming area with historic buildings, small shops, and places like Sunlight Yoga and Tea Bar. I even picked up a Christmas gift there for my wife (and no, she didn’t see this before the holidays—thankfully). Another favorite for boutique-style shopping and good eats is Downtown Davenport, the largest downtown district in the Quad Cities. Here you’ll find local favorites like Me & Billy, Analog Arcade Bar, and my personal go-to: Mantra, an Indian restaurant so good we hosted our rehearsal dinner there.

Downtown also shines when it comes to entertainment. LeClaire Park sits right on the river and hosts everything from festivals to symphony performances in its open-air Bandshell. Modern Woodmen Park, our minor league baseball stadium, has one of the most beautiful views in the country—bridges, water, and skyline all in one shot. The Freight House Farmers Market is another must-visit, offering local produce, crafts, and food vendors. If you're into community events, you'll also love things like the Bix 7 Road Race, Festival of Trees, and the many parades that make use of our scenic downtown and riverfront.

And then there’s the parks. Davenport has an impressive park system. Vander Veer Park is a personal favorite, especially around the holidays when the conservatory is decked out in lights. Another standout is Sunderbruch Park on the west side, which offers tree-lined trails that feel like you’ve left the city behind. For a larger outdoor space, West Lake Park—technically just outside city limits—is a great spot for hiking, fishing, and general recreation.

Of course, this is just a taste of what Davenport has to offer. If you're seriously considering a move here and want the full picture, I created a free relocation guide that’s packed with 41 pages of helpful info: from neighborhood breakdowns to the best local grocery stores and restaurants. You can grab it via the link in the comments or description below.

As a local real estate agent licensed in both Iowa and Illinois, I help families and individuals every week who are relocating to the Quad Cities. If you want help navigating neighborhoods, schools, or just figuring out if Davenport is right for you, I’d love to talk. My number is listed below—and yes, I’m the one who answers.

Want a closer look at what Davenport looks like from the ground?