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Moving to Davenport, IA

Complete 2026 relocation guide with costs, neighborhoods, and quality of life data

Quick Summary (TL;DR)

**Moving to Davenport, IA:** Average 2BR move costs $1,426 inbound. Cost of living is 16% below the national average (index: 83.7). The city has low demand (potential for 10-20% discounts) for moving services. Population: 101,724. Safety rating: moderately safe (71/100). Key industries: Manufacturing, Healthcare, Education.

Data Sources: MoveSmart_City_Analysis_2026, Census_ACS_2024, BLS_Employment_2026
102K
Population
$1,426
Avg Move Cost
83.7
Cost Index
71/100
Safety Score
$1.0K
Avg 1BR Rent
Last Updated: 2026-04-19Prepared by MoveSmart Team

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Moving Logistics for Davenport

Permits, parking, and practical considerations

Davenport-Specific Moving Tips
  • !Davenport is car-dependent — plan for vehicle shipping or purchase post-move.
For the general moving-day checklist and timeline, see our Complete Moving Guide.

Economy & Job Market

Employment, industries, and opportunities in Davenport

Davenport's job market draws on Manufacturing and Healthcare. The median household income of $50,653 is comparable to the national median.

Median Household Income
$50,653
At national median
Key Industries
5
Manufacturing, Healthcare, Education
Major Employers
5
John Deere, Genesis Health System
Industry Landscape

The local economy is driven by Manufacturing, Healthcare, Education, with additional opportunities in Agriculture and Logistics. Major employers include John Deere, Genesis Health System, UnityPoint Health - Trinity, Davenport Community School District.

ManufacturingHealthcareEducationAgricultureLogistics
Major Employers
John Deere
Genesis Health System
UnityPoint Health - Trinity
Davenport Community School District
St. Ambrose University
Job Seeker Tips for Davenport
  • •Healthcare is a major employer - research hospital systems and clinics in your specialty.
  • •Research major employers like John Deere before relocating for better job prospects.
  • •Network with Davenport professionals on LinkedIn 2-3 months before your move.
  • •Check job boards specific to IA for local opportunities not listed nationally.
Data Sources: BLS_Employment_2026, Census_ACS_2024, LinkedIn_Economic_Graph

Moving Costs: Davenport

Inbound and outbound cost analysis

Moving TO Davenport

Moving TO Davenport: The average cost for a 2-bedroom move is $1,426. Davenport experiences lower demand, often resulting in competitive pricing and negotiation opportunities. Limited backhaul discounts available for this direction.

$1,426avg 2BR
Moving FROM Davenport

Moving FROM Davenport: The average cost for a 2-bedroom move is $1,426. Outbound and inbound costs are in a similar range on this corridor.

$1,426avg 2BR

Moving Costs by Home Size

Home SizeWeightInbound CostOutbound Cost
Studio/1BR2,000-3,000 lbs$856-$1,070$856-$1,070
2BR5,000-6,000 lbs$1,212-$1,640$1,212-$1,640
3BR8,000-10,000 lbs$1,854-$2,282$1,854-$2,282
4BR+12,000-15,000 lbs$2,567-$3,137$2,567-$3,137
Seasonal Factors

Davenport's northern location means winter moves (Dec-Feb) can face weather delays. Peak season is May-August with 20-40% higher rates. The "Golden Window" is late April to early May for best pricing and weather.

Money-Saving Tips for Davenport Moves
  • $Davenport's moderate demand means more negotiating power — compare multiple estimates.
  • $Book 4-6 weeks ahead for Davenport moves to lock in the best rates.
  • $Mid-month, mid-week moves to Davenport are typically 10-15% cheaper than month-end weekends.
Data Sources: MoveSmart_Cost_Analysis_2026, EIA_STEO_2026, FMCSA_Carrier_Database

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about moving to Davenport

The average 2-bedroom move TO Davenport costs $1,426, with studios around $713 and 4+ bedroom homes running $2,852+. Off-peak timing often yields lower rates on this corridor.

MoveSmart Rate Database, AMSA 2025
Data Sources: MoveSmart_FAQ_Database, Census_ACS_2024, FMCSA_2026

Local Moving Challenges in Davenport

City-specific obstacles and how to handle them

Davenport's smaller footprint generally makes moving logistics more straightforward than major metros. However, some residential areas may have narrow streets or limited truck access that requires planning.

Parking & Permit Requirements

Contact Davenport city hall or your building management about moving truck parking permits. Most apartment complexes and HOAs have their own requirements including elevator reservations, proof of insurance, and sometimes move-in deposits. Schedule your parking permit at least 5 business days before your move date.

Neighborhood Moving Tips

  • Ask your new Davenport neighbors about moving day logistics specific to your building or street. Local knowledge prevents surprises.
  • Join Davenport community groups online before your move to get neighborhood-specific tips from residents.

Quality of Life in Davenport

Safety, walkability, commute, and environment

Overall Quality of Life Score
59/100

Davenport scores 59/100 on our Quality of Life Index (based on available local metrics). This is a moderate score, with room for improvement in some areas. Key strengths include below-average cost of living and strong job market with diverse industries. Areas to consider: car-dependent with limited public transit.

Safety

Good
71

Davenport scores well on safety metrics — still research specific neighborhoods.

Walkability

Below Average
39

Car-dependent city - plan for vehicle ownership costs.

Commute

Average
42

Average commute is 29 minutes. Reasonable commute times across the city.

Pros of Living in Davenport
  • +Below-average cost of living
  • +Strong job market with diverse industries
Considerations
  • -Car-dependent with limited public transit
Data Sources: FBI_Crime_Stats_2024, WalkScore_API, EPA_AQI_2026, Census_Commute_Data_2024
In-Depth Guide

The Complete Guide to Moving to Davenport, IA in 2026

Prepared by MoveSmart Team · · 231 words

Reviewed by MoveSmart Team · Last verified April 2026 · Editorial Standards

Table of Contents

1Why People Are Moving to Davenport

Davenport, Iowa has become an attractive option for relocating families and professionals in 2026. With a population of 101,724, the city offers strong opportunities in Manufacturing, Healthcare, Education. The affordable cost of living combines with excellent safety ratings and suburban character with room to grow. Whether you're relocating for a job opportunity, seeking a change of scenery, or planning retirement, understanding Davenport's unique characteristics will help you make an informed decision and plan a successful move.

2What to Expect: Cost of Living in Davenport

Understanding Davenport's cost structure is essential for planning your move. The city's Cost of Living Index of 83.7 means you'll enjoy savings of about 16% compared to the national average. **Housing Costs:** The median home price is $252,380, while renters pay approximately $1,044 for a 1-bedroom and $1,358 for a 2-bedroom apartment. The housing market offers reasonable options across various price points. **Income Considerations:** The median household income in Davenport is $50,653. Salaries are in line with the cost of living.

3Moving Costs: Getting to Davenport

The cost of your move to Davenport depends on distance, timing, and inventory size. **Inbound**: Moving TO Davenport averages $1,426 for a 2BR. **Outbound**: Moving FROM Davenport averages $1,426.

4Next Steps for Your Davenport Move

For the full pre-move timeline and general moving guidance, see our [Complete Moving Guide](/guide). Below, get a personalized cost estimate for your Davenport move:
Data Sources: MoveSmart_Research_2026, Census_ACS_2024, BLS_2026, EIA_STEO_2026

Cost of Living in Davenport

Compared to national averages

Davenport offers a cost of living 16% below the national average, making it an attractive destination for budget-conscious movers.

CategoryDavenportNational AvgDifference
Cost of Living Index83.7100-16%
1BR Rent (Monthly)$1,044$1,500-30%
2BR Rent (Monthly)$1,358$1,900-29%
Median Home Price$252,380$400,000-37%
Median Household Income$50,653$75,000-32%
Sales Tax Rate6.94%7.12%-0.18%
Key Insights
  • •Davenport offers significant cost savings. Your dollar goes 16% further here than the national average.
  • •Housing is relatively affordable: Rent is 25% of median income, within the healthy 30% threshold recommended by housing experts [Source: Harvard JCHS 2025].
Data Sources: Census_ACS_2024, BLS_CPI_2026, Zillow_Rent_Index_2026

Neighborhoods in Davenport

Finding the right area for your lifestyle

Davenport offers a diverse array of neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character. The **Village of East Davenport** is a historic district known for its charming boutiques, local restaurants, and tree-lined residential streets. **McClellan Heights** features upscale, historic homes with scenic views overlooking the Mississippi River, offering a more established and picturesque setting. **Central City**, or Downtown Davenport, is the historic core, blending riverfront entertainment, business, and some residential lofts. The **Hilltop** area is primarily residential, conveniently located near St. Ambrose University and Palmer College of Chiropractic, with several parks. **Duck Creek** is a family-friendly residential area, popular for its access to Duck Creek Park and the extensive Duck Creek Parkway trail system. The **West End** is a diverse residential area, home to a mix of housing styles and some industrial zones.

Average 1BR Rent
$1,044
Monthly
Average 2BR Rent
$1,358
Monthly
Walkability Score
39/100
Car-Dependent
Neighborhood Selection Tips
    Data Sources: Zillow_Rent_Index_2026, WalkScore_API, Census_ACS_2024

    Davenport at a Glance

    Five metrics that shape daily life — each city's polygon tells its own story.

    Safety: 71/100 (71/100)Walkability: 39/100 (39/100)Air quality: 50/100 (N/A)Short commute: 62/100 (29 min)Affordability: 95/100 (CoL 84)SafetyWalkabilityAir qualityShort commuteAffordability
    Safety
    71/100
    71
    Walkability
    39/100
    39
    Air quality
    N/A
    50
    Short commute
    29 min
    62
    Affordability
    CoL 84
    95

    Popular Moving Routes for Davenport

    Real price, distance, and demand data for top corridors in and out of Davenport.

    Moving FROM Davenport

    DestinationMiles2BR costDemand
    Chicago, IL154$1,492–$750Medium
    Columbus, OH411$1,419–$1,905Medium
    Indianapolis, IN261$1,411–$1,203Medium
    Detroit, MI391$1,357–$1,733Medium
    Nashville, TN423$1,366–$1,888Medium
    Milwaukee, WI172$1,368–$769Medium

    Moving TO Davenport

    OriginMiles2BR costDemand
    Chicago, IL154$1,492–$750Medium
    Columbus, OH411$1,419–$1,905Medium
    Indianapolis, IN261$1,411–$1,203Medium
    Detroit, MI391$1,357–$1,733Medium
    Nashville, TN423$1,366–$1,888Medium
    Milwaukee, WI172$1,368–$769Medium

    Davenport Moving Challenges & Local Tips

    Davenport's smaller footprint generally makes moving logistics more straightforward than major metros. However, some residential areas may have narrow streets or limited truck access that requires planning.

    Parking & Permits

    Contact Davenport city hall or your building management about moving truck parking permits. Most apartment complexes and HOAs have their own requirements including elevator reservations, proof of insurance, and sometimes move-in deposits. Schedule your parking permit at least 5 business days before your move date.

    Neighborhood Tips

    • Ask your new Davenport neighbors about moving day logistics specific to your building or street. Local knowledge prevents surprises.
    • Join Davenport community groups online before your move to get neighborhood-specific tips from residents.

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    Estimates based on carrier rate cards and published industry data

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