Once a small farming community of 190, North Liberty grew from a suburb for Cedar Rapids and Iowa City into a city of more than 20,000 neighbors strong. "We're good at being flexible and resilient here because we've grown so rapidly," says Jennie Garner, longtime resident and director at the North Liberty Library. "I feel fortunate that we're so supportive as a city." The growth, both geographically and culturally, has shifted the city's focus toward improving services and inviting new opportunities. Industries like Heartland Express Inc., Geico and Centro have offices in North Liberty, and the University of Iowa's teaching hospitals and clinics will expand into the city in 2025. "Healthcare is the single largest industry that our community works in, so bringing those jobs closer is a really big deal. The University of Iowa North Liberty campus will employ hundreds of folks," says Nick Bergus, the city's community relations director.
North Liberty is indeed a great place to live.
The newly constructed University of Iowa Health Care North Liberty Campus will bring jobs and hospital access to North Liberty.
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Growing every year since the 1990s
Bi-level and ranch-style homes from the 1900s to the 1990s are common near the center of town. On either side of downtown, new development expands into the remaining farmland surrounding the city. New subdivisions like Deerfield and The Preserve have hundreds of recently built homes and multi-level condos. Styles are contemporary, New Traditional and custom designs in neutral tones. The median sales price for a home in North Liberty is around $316,000, lower than the national median of $407,000.
Simple split-level homes are a popular option surrounding the center of North Liberty.
Homes with five or more bedrooms are scattered around the outskirts of North Liberty.
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Highways and a regional bike network connect to bigger cities
North Liberty follows Interstate 380, a primary connector with Interstate 80. Highway access is a significant draw since it leads to jobs and commercial hubs within the Cedar Rapids-Iowa City metro area, but traffic isn't an issue. "A lot of traffic is school drop-off driven. Peak times are when school starts and ends, but it's all very manageable," says Bergus. People also commute via the city's regional bike network and Coralville's fixed-route bus service. The Cedar Rapids and Iowa City Railway passes through North Liberty, and Eastern Iowa Airport is about 13 miles away.
North Liberty's growth means brand-new schools
Two school districts serve North Liberty, although the majority falls under the Iowa City Community School District. The district earns an A on Niche and ranks as the second-best school district in the Cedar Rapids area. Students living west of Jones Boulevard attend the B-rated Clear Creek Amana Community School District. Many of the city's schools are brand-new or have been recently renovated. "Our schools are all very new because of our growth. Liberty High School was the first high school built in Iowa in probably over 30 years when it opened in 2010," Bergus says. The B-rated Kirkwood Community College is less than 1 mile from North Liberty, doubling as a major employer for the area, like the A-rated University of Iowa, 8 miles away.
Clear Creek Amana Community School District is one of the school districts that serves North Liberty.
The purple of the Liberty High Lightning is a popular color around North Liberty.
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Natural spaces and developments for 2025
Two outdoor spaces stand out in North Liberty. The 40-acre Centennial Park offers playgrounds, trails and soon-to-be-finished entertainment venues. In late 2025, an event hall and open-air amphitheater will open, becoming hubs for public concerts and private events. The North Liberty Community Center not only has diverse fitness areas, including indoor and outdoor aquatic facilities, but it's also home to the North Liberty Community Library. The city is within 4 miles of several natural areas, including the Iowa River. The river feeds into Coralville Lake, a popular boating, fishing and swimming spot. Surrounding the lake are 13,500 acres of wildlife preserves and campgrounds.
Centennial Park will be home to a brand new amphitheater as of Summer 2025.
North Liberty Community Center offers programs and classes for residents of all ages.
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Coralville is the city's shopping hub
Penn Landing and Liberty Center—the city's largest commercial centers—offer nationally recognized stores, local restaurants and offices. However, most people travel outside the city for shopping and entertainment. Coral Ridge Mall is about 5 miles away in Coralville and has over 100 stores, a movie theater and a year-round ice rink. Farther south in Iowa City, people cheer for the University of Iowa Hawkeyes, shop downtown and see performances at the historic Englert Theatre.
The crossroads of North Liberty are a retail hub with shopping, dining, and other services.
Tin Roost is a favorite local restaurant, famous for great indoor and outdoor dining spaces.
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City Slate brings new events yearly
Over 40 free events happen year-round through North Liberty's City Slate. Summer brings craft beer and bluesy tunes together at the Blues & BBQ festival. On Fridays, the historic Ranshaw House invites local musicians to play on its front porch. As summer transitions into fall, the city closes Dubuque Street for a community dance party, and kiddos collect treats on the Halloween Trail. Fire & Ice is one of the city's largest winter festivals, pairing ice skating with impressive fire shows.
Low flood risk and crime rates
North Liberty sees four distinct seasons. The lowest temperatures are between December and February when snowfall can create hazardous road conditions. While Bergus says the city's weather is often unpredictable, people remain active outdoors year-round. The city is also far enough from the Iowa River and Coralville Reservoir that flooding is rarely an issue.
According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, North Liberty's property and violent crime rates are significantly lower than the national average.
Written By
Isabel Butler
Photography Contributed By
Drew Davis
Video By
Jacob Branchaud
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GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
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On average, homes in North Liberty, IA sell after 54 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in North Liberty, IA over the last 12 months is $330,000, up 4% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
This well-maintained 3 bed, 2.5 bath townhouse in North Liberty offers comfortable living with modern touches throughout. The main level features durable LVP flooring in the kitchen and living room, creating a stylish and functional space ideal for everyday living and entertaining. Upstairs, the primary suite includes an en-suite bathroom and a spacious walk-in closet, while two additional
Welcome to 1078 Bay Hill Circle, a charming multi-level home in North Liberty just off Jones Blvd! This delightful property features 3 bedrooms & 2.5 baths including a primary suite. This sunlit home has 3 levels of 1,734 finished square feet plus an unfinished basement. The main floor has LVP flooring throughout, the kitchen equipped with Quartz countertops (2020) and newer KitchenAid
New Watts Group Construction in The Preserve, a newer community in North Liberty. This is a 4 Bedroom, 3 bathroom, ranch style home with an open floor plan that walks out to a covered deck. Primary en-suite, drop zone and laundry room on the main level. Kitchen features an island and pantry. The LL features a family room, 2 bedrooms and an additional bathroom. The two stall garage has rough-in
Step into this stunning 2,500 sq ft multilevel home in the highly sought-after Arlington Ridge neighborhood — a rare opportunity to own a beautifully designed property that blends comfort, style, and incredible outdoor living. Built in 2007, this 4-bedroom home offers a smart, flexible layout perfect for families, guests, or multigenerational living. The main level features a spacious kitchen
Located in the growing community of North Liberty, this zero-lot line home features 4 bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms with a total of 2,260 finished square feet. Featuring both new carpet and paint on both the main floor and upstairs. The two-story layout features an open layout in the living areas, a gas fireplace, and a combined kitchen and dining area. The primary suite is located upstairs with a
This well-maintained 3 bed, 2.5 bath townhouse in North Liberty offers comfortable living with modern touches throughout. The main level features durable LVP flooring in the kitchen and living room, creating a stylish and functional space ideal for everyday living and entertaining. Upstairs, the primary suite includes an en-suite bathroom and a spacious walk-in closet, while two additional
Get Acquainted with 1285 Eisenhower Blvd, The Aurora! Step into timeless style and modern comfort in this beautifully designed 4-bedroom, 3-bath home. Once a Silverthorne Model Home, this residence showcases elevated design details throughout — including 9' ceilings on the main floor and 8' ceilings upstairs that create an open, airy feel from the moment you walk in. The heart of the home is a
Spacious and well designed 2 bedroom, 2.5 bath condo offering 1,304 square feet of living space. This property features an open main level with a bright living room, fireplace, dining area, and a functional kitchen ideal for everyday living and entertaining. A private balcony off the main living area provides great outdoor space for relaxing or grilling. The attached 2 car garage is located on
Escape the city and unwind in this charming neighborhood near Coralville Lake and Bobber's Grill. Enjoy peaceful mornings and relaxing evenings on either of the homes two decks both front and back overlooking a fenced backyard that brings you closer to nature. Inside, the kitchen shines with white cabinetry, quartz countertops, a gas stove with hood, and stainless steel appliances. The main floor
Highly desirable ground floor condo in the heart of North liberty. Don't miss out on this well-kept 2 bedroom, 2 bath condo featuring updated LVP flooring, cozy corner fireplace, private patio, and spacious kitchen. Easy access to trails, interstate, new hospitals.
Charming zero-lot home with upper and lower decks overlooking a peaceful wooded backyard—right in the heart of North Liberty! Bright white kitchen cabinetry pairs beautifully with stainless dishwasher and smooth-top electric range. Enjoy an open floor plan with vaulted living room ceiling, updated lighting, and great natural light throughout. The lower-level family room offers flexible space and
Welcome home to this well-maintained 2-bedroom, 2-bath condo located on the second level in desirable North Liberty. This bright and open floor plan offers comfortable living with generous room sizes and an abundance of natural light, along with a lovely view of the stream from the porch and through the windows. The kitchen flows seamlessly into the living and dining areas, making it ideal for
This stunning 4-bedroom, 3-bath ranch in North Liberty is the one you’ve been waiting for! Step inside to find freshly installed luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout the main level, a spacious kitchen with breakfast bar, and an upgraded sink (2020). Downstairs, you’ll love the expansive family room, additional bedroom, and full bath, plus a fully finished storage area that gives you room to
Welcome to 1078 Bay Hill Circle, a charming multi-level home in North Liberty just off Jones Blvd! This delightful property features 3 bedrooms & 2.5 baths including a primary suite. This sunlit home has 3 levels of 1,734 finished square feet plus an unfinished basement. The main floor has LVP flooring throughout, the kitchen equipped with Quartz countertops (2020) and newer KitchenAid
Discover your ideal year-round lake retreat with this inviting A-frame home, peacefully nestled among mature trees. The classic design seamlessly blends rustic appeal with contemporary updates for comfortable living. Relax on the expansive, well-maintained deck that captures the serene surroundings. The open living room welcomes you with exposed wood beams, dramatic vaulted ceilings, and a
The Emory North Liberty is a pet-friendly, luxury apartment community located in North Liberty, Iowa in the rapidly growing area of Solomon's Landing. Our location offers many local hot spots to love just steps from your front door. With space ranging across a wide array of 1, 2, and 3 bedroom floor plans, we're sure to have the perfect place to call home. Residents are sure to love the
Penn Street Place is a 52 unit apartment building featuring a combination of 1 and 2 bedroom apartments that in the heartbeat of North Liberty. When you make up your mind with Penn Street Place you are going with class, convenience and style as you have the finest dining at your door step such as Tin Roost, Field Day Brewery, and Fiesta the best mexican cuisine in town . Relish and delight in our
Spacious 5-bedroom, 3-bath single-family ranch home available for rent in a quiet, family-friendly neighborhood. This well-maintained home features a 3-car garage and a huge private backyard, perfect for relaxing or entertaining. Located close to highly rated schools and surrounded by friendly neighbors, the home offers comfortable and convenient living. Flexible move-in date available. The owner
AVAILABLE JULY 1, 2026! Wonderful, family friendly 2 bedroom | 2 Bathroom condo in North Liberty near Christine Grant elementary. - Fireplace- Stainless Appliances- In-unit Washer | Dryer- Balcony- Free off street parking with 1 garage stall- Small pets up to 50 pounds permitted with deposit and pet fee. - Non-smoking Building. - Trash, snow removal, mowing and
Single family home in quiet North Liberty neighborhood. This two-story house has been recently remodeled and is a must see. This property has 4 bedrooms upstairs, tub with tiled shower and 1/2 bath off master bedroom. Downstairs there is laundry with washer and dryer provided, 1/2 bath, open kitchen/living room area, front room with bay window. Oversized two stall attached garage
Freshly remodeled 3 bedroom 1 bath home in the Sugar Creek neighborhood. New kitchen appliances, new countertops, new trim, and fresh paint across the home. New roof, finished garage, new sump pump, and more! Home was remodeled head to toe over the last 3 months by the owner and his small team. Washer dryer in unit. Large fenced back yard. Can include landscaping for $150 a month. (Yard takes
Available August 9! Pet-Friendly up to 50 pounds. Wonderful young professional community! This property at 90 Jefferson St, #5 features 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms within a total of 1,000 square feet. The living room offers ample space for relaxation and is designed for comfort and fireplace. 2 bedrooms provide sufficient room for furniture and personal items, 2 spacious bathrooms. The kitchen
Live lavishly at the 965 Flats in Coralville, IA. Where upscale design meets copious convenience, that's where you'll find our gorgeous one- and two-bedroom apartments complete with state-of-the-art washers and dryers, stainless steel appliances, and spacious walk-in closets. As an exclusive community perk, you'll also enjoy access to our heated swimming pool, fitness center, and professionally
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