Why Are People Leaving Davenport, Iowa? An Honest Review

Why Are People Leaving Davenport, Iowa? An Honest Review

Davenport, Iowa, is a city with a lot going for it. It’s home to the River Bandits, the iconic Bix 7 Road Race, and it even earned recognition as the #1 Best Place for Millennials to Live and 43rd by U.S. News & World Report. Yet, despite these accolades, some residents are packing up and leaving. What’s behind this paradox? Let’s dive into the reasons people are choosing to leave Davenport—and why it might still be the right place for you.

1. Taxes: A Double-Edged Sword

One of the primary reasons people both move to and leave Davenport is taxes. While Iowa's property taxes are lower than Illinois (notorious for having some of the highest in the country), they’re still higher than the national average. Many new residents from out of state are surprised by how property taxes impact their housing affordability. It’s a factor to weigh carefully if you’re considering a move here.

2. Job Security and Economic Shifts

Davenport’s economy is heavily reliant on manufacturing, with major employers like John Deere and others anchoring the region. However, the broader trend of outsourcing manufacturing jobs has left some workers in limbo. While there are efforts to diversify the local economy, job security remains a concern for many.

3. School Districts

Education is a top priority for families, and Davenport’s schools face criticism. According to Niche.com, the Davenport School District receives a C+ rating and ranks outside the top 15 schools in the Quad Cities area. Families often seek out neighboring districts with stronger reputations, prompting moves to nearby towns.

4. Flooding Challenges

Unique among the Quad Cities, Davenport does not have a flood wall, leaving parts of the city vulnerable during flood season. While most residential areas aren’t in flood zones, the inconvenience of road closures and temporary barriers downtown can be a headache.

5. Remote Work and Its Decline

During the pandemic, remote work brought an influx of people to Davenport, drawn by the city’s affordability and quality of life. However, as remote work opportunities have dwindled, some of those new residents have moved on, following their jobs elsewhere.

6. Harsh Winters

Iowa winters aren’t for the faint of heart. They’re long, cold, and dark, which can be a shock to newcomers. For many, the challenges of snow removal and frigid temperatures outweigh the charm of a winter wonderland.

7. Infrastructure Woes

Davenport’s infrastructure, especially its roads, seems perpetually under construction. While this is a common gripe in cities nationwide, it’s a frustration cited by some residents who feel projects drag on without visible progress.

Why Davenport Still Shines

Despite these challenges, Davenport remains a city with strong appeal. Its low cost of living, close-knit communities, and rich cultural offerings continue to attract people from across the country. Whether you’re looking for vibrant downtown living or a quieter suburban vibe, Davenport has a lot to offer.

Moving to Davenport?

If you’re considering a move to Davenport, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons and figure out what matters most to you. As a local real estate expert, I’d love to help you navigate your options and find the perfect home. Whether it’s understanding property taxes, evaluating school districts, or ensuring your home isn’t in a flood zone, I’m here to make your transition as smooth as possible.

Ready to get started? Call, text, or email me today, and let’s make Davenport your new home. And don’t forget to check out the video down below.