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
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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 52 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in North Liberty, IA over the last 12 months is $329,900, up 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Like new 2023 WALKOUT ranch zero lot featuring an inviting open concept with clean lines, soaring 9 ft. and 10 ft. ceilings, and decorated to compliment most any Buyer’s taste! There is a designer wood post beam ceiling and a stylish white painted floor to ceiling ship lap fireplace; wonderful LVP flooring; spacious white kitchen offering solid surface countertops, tile back splash, pantry
Welcome to 1980 Silver Maple Trail in North Liberty — a beautifully updated ranch offering modern style, functional space, and exceptional comfort. This inviting home features an open-concept floor plan perfect for everyday living and entertaining, with vaulted ceilings, abundant natural light, and a cozy fireplace creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Updated flooring throughout enhances the
Charming third-floor condo in the heart of North Liberty offering comfort, convenience. This bright and inviting 2-bedroom, 1-bath home features an open-concept layout with large windows that fill the living space with natural light. Just off the living room, enjoy a private screened-in porch, the perfect spot to relax and unwind. The functional floor plan offers comfortable bedrooms, a spacious
Well-maintained multi-level home in Arlington Ridge Priced to move & offering 4 bedrooms and 3 full baths with plenty of space both inside and out. The large primary suite features a spacious walk-in closet and private bath, creating a comfortable retreat within the home. The walkout lower level opens to a poured patio overlooking the large, flat yard with beautiful landscaping. Enjoy outdoor
Welcome to 1809 Goose Lake Cir. 3-bedroom, 2-bath end-unit. Tucked away in a peaceful neighborhood close to a neighborhood pond (Goose lake), and walking trails. Whether you’re searching for your very first home or a savvy investment opportunity, this property checks all the boxes. Vaulted ceilings and open-concept floor plan offers comfortable everyday living with seamless spaces for
Welcome to this warm and inviting zero lot line property in North Liberty's desirable West Lake neighborhood. The sun-drenched, open-concept living and dining area features vaulted ceilings and a cozy fireplace. Step directly through the sliding glass doors onto your spacious back deck to take in serene, sweeping views of the peaceful neighborhood pond. The fully finished walk-out lower level
Welcome home to this original-owner 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom zero lot located in the desirable North Liberty area with no HOA fees! Step inside to an inviting open layout featuring vaulted ceilings, great natural light, and a spacious living room with a cozy fireplace. The kitchen offers plenty of cabinet space, stainless steel appliances, and an easy flow for everyday living or entertaining. Enjoy
.64 Acres backed up to Liberty Ball Fields. This immaculately maintained and thoughtfully crafted, offers zero-entry access and an abundance of natural light. The main-floor living room invites you in, with a stone gas fireplace and built-in cabinets. At the heart of the home is a chef's kitchen, featuring a gas cooktop, double ovens, a double-drawer dishwasher, and a sleek drawer microwave built
Beautiful and well maintained 3 bedroom, 3 Bathroom zero-lot on a cul-de-sac in the highly sought after Harvest Estates subdivision in North Liberty, right next to the new Centennial Park. The main level greets you with a great room with vaulted ceilings, lots of natural light, corner gas fireplace with tile surround, slider going out to the wood deck and LVP flooring. The kitchen features Walnut
Custom-built & lovingly maintained with almost 3200 sq ft, this distinctive home offers a floor plan full of character and beautiful views of Quail Creek Golf Course. Step inside to a dramatic two-story great room featuring a cozy fireplace & a striking wall of windows that fills the home with natural light. Tucked away on a fabulous cul-de-sac, this special property is one of a kind! The open
Stunning lake-area retreat on nearly 1 acre in North Liberty! This unique 3-bedroom, 2-bath home blends charm, comfort, and functionality in a private natural setting. Interior features include heated floors throughout, bamboo flooring on the main level, ceramic tile accents, skylights, and bright open living spaces. The home also features a newer roof and updated foundation walls. The spacious
To Be Built later this year or Build To Suit on Lot #15 - Still time to choose your colors and finishes. 5-Bedroom, 3-Bathroom Home in the Heart of Solomon's Landing! Step into style, space, and serenity in this beautifully designed home nestled in one of North Liberty’s most dynamic and sought-after communities. Just a short stroll away, you’ll find a peaceful 4-acre community pond perfect for
New Construction Home is completed! Modern ranch home in the highly sought after Solomon's landing! The main floor features 3 spacious bedrooms, with 2 additional bedrooms in the lower level, and ceiling fans in every bedroom for year-round comfort. The inviting primary suite stands out with its elegant tray ceiling, a private en suite bathroom with dual sinks, a big shower, and a generous
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
Modern 12-unit apartment building coming soon in North Liberty. Now under construction, this brand-new apartment building offers stylish and spacious 2-bedrooms, 2-bath units designed for comfort and convenience. Located in a quiet North Liberty neighborhood, residents will enjoy peaceful living with easy access to I-380, Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, and nearby shopping and dining
Property Id: 2612483Three bedroom, three bath Zerolot nestled within a newer neighborhood and steps away from a beautiful park and local elementary school. Inside, you’ll find an open and airy floor plan with large windows, stylish finishes, and plenty of natural light. The kitchen flows seamlessly into the dining and living areas — ideal for gatherings or casual entertaining. The lower
Property Id: 2617858Spacious 3-Bedroom, 2.5-Bath End-Unit Condo in a Prime LocationThis well-maintained end-unit condo offers 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and a private backyard patio in a highly desirable location. The home features an attached 2-car garage and a thoughtfully designed floor plan.The main level features durable vinyl flooring throughout and includes a fully equipped
Fully furnished Well-maintained condo conveniently located within walking distance to restaurants and recreation. Features new LVP flooring throughout the main living areas and water heater. Includes a detached 1-stall garage. Building is a non smoking community. I Work with data center workers, travel nurses, and traveling tradesmen with flexible terms.
A spacious 3-bedroom house featuring two living areas, a modern kitchen, an indoor laundry room, and a garage for one car with additional parking space for two cars. The home includes a backyard, central air conditioning, and a heating system. The master bedroom boasts a large walk-in closet. Lawn care and snow removal services are provided, so there’s no need for maintenance. The house is
2 bed/ 2 bath third floor condo w/ vaulted ceilings. Located in the heart of North Liberty in a secure building. Close to the NL rec center, biking/walking trails, restaurants, and schools, with easy access to I-380, 965, and I-80. In unit washer dryer, detached 1 stall garage and 1 off street parking space. Tenant in charge of water & sewer, electricity, gas, cable, telephone and internet. HOA
Welcome to easy condo living in the heart of North Liberty! This spacious 3rd-floor condo offers 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, and an open-concept layout with plenty of natural light throughout. The large living room flows into the dining area and kitchen, creating the perfect space for relaxing or entertaining.The primary suite features a private bathroom and generous closet
**Furnished Townhouse-Style Condo** Pre-screen form required before showings.The main level features a living room that seamlessly connects to a beautiful kitchen equipped with quartz countertops and stainless steel GE Energy-Efficient appliances, including a gas stove. The kitchen also has a spacious pantry and a half bath for convenience. As you enter through the zero-entry garage door, you'll
$995 per month
$995 | 2 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom Apartment | Pet Friendly* | Available for August 1st, 2026 Move In!
This 2 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom Apartment is available for 08/01/26 Move In!Click Here For 3D Tour: Enjoy this 2 bedroom / 1 bathroom apartment featuring large windows and central air/heat. Located just 1 block from Fareway, this apartment offers quick and easy access to North Liberty, Coralville, Iowa City, and Cedar Rapids. Cats and small breed dogs are allowed with an additional pet
$995 per month
$995 | 2 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom Apartment | Pet Friendly* | Available for August 1st, 2026 Move In!
This 2 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom Apartment is available for August 1st, 2026 Move In!Copy this link to your browser to schedule a showing at your convenience.Included in Rent* Garbage* Lawn Care* Snow RemovalNot Included - Tenant Responsibilities- Electricity: Alliant Energy- Gas: MidAmerican Energy- Water: City of North LibertyAdditional
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