We’ve identified communities where you will be safe and welcome and where your vote will be a game-changer at the ballot box.Iowa: Field of Opportunities
Iowa: Congressional District 1
Iowa: Congressional District 1
Located in the southeastern part of the state and bordering the Mississippi River, offers a lifestyle that is a blend of urban and rural sensibilities. Characterized by a strong sense of community and an affordable cost of living, the district is home to a diverse population of nearly 800,000 residents. The region's economy is a powerhouse of agriculture and manufacturing, anchored by family-owned farms and local industries.
Homeownership is a realistic goal for a wide range of residents, with housing being significantly more accessible than in many other parts of the country. While the area experiences all four distinct seasons, including cold winters, it benefits from plenty of year-round sunshine, which contributes to a pleasant living environment and a high quality of life. The district includes vibrant urban centers like Davenport and Iowa City, known for their cultural and economic contributions, as well as a rich tradition of farming and community life in its rural areas.
Much of this district includes areas designated Lower and Lowest Vulnerability on the US Climate Vulnerability Index.
COMMUNITY SNAPSHOTS
Iowa City, Johnson County
Iowa City Livability Stats:
Suburban ● $$$ ● Schools: A ● Crime: C ● Community Health: Above Average ● Nearby Airport
Iowa City Homes for Sale and Rent
Iowa City is a vibrant community with a dynamic blend of a college town atmosphere and a sophisticated cultural scene. As a UNESCO City of Literature and home to the renowned University of Iowa, it offers a creative and intellectual environment.
The city's economy is anchored by the University of Iowa, including its hospitals and clinics, making education and healthcare major employment sectors. The Iowa City Community School District serves over 14,000 students across 28 schools, and the area is a regional hub for medical services, with the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics serving as a Level 1 trauma center and a premier medical facility for the state.
Beyond its economic and educational strengths, Iowa City boasts a lively downtown with a wide array of bars, restaurants, and coffee shops. Residents can enjoy numerous parks and a variety of cultural amenities, including events and public art, that contribute to a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. The city's focus on supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs adds to its unique character, making it a place many who leave are drawn to return to.
Iowa City, as part of Johnson County, exhibits a range of climate vulnerabilities and areas of resilience. The county's overall climate vulnerability is relatively low compared to the national average.
Key Vulnerabilities:
Exposures & Risks: This is a significant area of concern, with Johnson County's vulnerability ranking in the 92nd national percentile and the 1st highest in Iowa. This category includes historical and projected extreme weather events.
Temperature: The vulnerability to temperature ranks in the 90th national percentile, indicating a high risk factor within the county.
Social Stressors: This area also shows high vulnerability, ranking in the 81st national percentile and 90th in Iowa.
Pollution Sources: Johnson County has a notable vulnerability in this area, ranking in the 78th national percentile and 16th in Iowa.
Transition Risks: The vulnerability related to transition risks ranks in the 76th national percentile and 75th in Iowa.
Areas of Relative Resilience:
Infrastructure: The county's infrastructure is a significant strength, with an infrastructure vulnerability ranking in the 0th national percentile, indicating extremely low vulnerability.
Health (Community Baseline): Factors reflecting the baseline state of population health show very low vulnerability, ranking in the 2nd national percentile and 18th in Iowa.
Social & Economic (Community Baseline): Social and economic stressors that impact community resilience are also very low, ranking in the 3rd national percentile and 92nd in Iowa.
Health (Climate Impacts): Expected changes in community health resulting from a warming climate show low vulnerability, ranking in the 15th national percentile.
Extreme Events: Historical and projected extreme weather event occurrences show moderate vulnerability, ranking in the 35th national percentile.
Overall Vulnerability:
Johnson County's overall climate vulnerability ranks it 95th out of 99 counties in Iowa, with a score that is in the 6th national vulnerability percentile (lowest vulnerability). This indicates that while there are specific high-risk areas, the county's overall vulnerability is considerably lower than most places nationally.
Iowa City Climate Stats
Coralville, Johnson County
Coralville Livability Stats:
Suburban ● $$ ● Schools: A ● Crime: B ● Community Health: Above Average ● Nearby Airport
Coralville Homes for Sale and Rent
Coralville offers a harmonious blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience, making it a desirable place to live. Located just north of Iowa City, it provides residents with a quieter, community-oriented atmosphere while maintaining easy access to the amenities of a larger city. The area is known for its strong community spirit and a wealth of local amenities, including parks, restaurants, and shopping destinations like the Coral Ridge Mall and the upscale Iowa River Landing. The city's commitment to a high quality of life is also reflected in its well-regarded school system and a family-friendly environment.
The local economy is a significant draw, offering diverse job opportunities across various sectors. The largest industries in Coralville are health care, educational services, and manufacturing. Major employers in the area include Integrated DNA Technologies, MediRevv, and a range of retail and service businesses. The proximity to the University of Iowa also plays a large role, providing a steady source of jobs in education and healthcare. Living in Coralville is notably more affordable than the national average, especially when it comes to housing, with the cost of living being approximately 12% less expensive. The city's strategic location with easy access to major interstates also makes commuting to nearby cities like Iowa City and Cedar Rapids manageable.
Coralville Climate Stats
Coralville, Iowa, as part of Johnson County, exhibits a range of climate vulnerabilities and areas of resilience. The county's overall climate vulnerability is relatively low compared to the national average.
Key Vulnerabilities:
Exposures & Risks: This is a significant area of concern, with Johnson County's vulnerability ranking in the 92nd national percentile and the 1st highest in Iowa. This category includes historical and projected extreme weather events.
Temperature: The vulnerability to temperature ranks in the 90th national percentile, indicating a high risk factor within the county.
Social Stressors: This area also shows high vulnerability, ranking in the 81st national percentile and 90th in Iowa.
Pollution Sources: Johnson County has a notable vulnerability in this area, ranking in the 78th national percentile and 16th in Iowa.
Transition Risks: The vulnerability related to transition risks ranks in the 76th national percentile and 75th in Iowa.
Areas of Relative Resilience:
Infrastructure: The county's infrastructure is a significant strength, with an infrastructure vulnerability ranking in the 0th national percentile, indicating extremely low vulnerability.
Health (Community Baseline): Factors reflecting the baseline state of population health show very low vulnerability, ranking in the 2nd national percentile and 18th in Iowa.
Social & Economic (Community Baseline): Social and economic stressors that impact community resilience are also very low, ranking in the 3rd national percentile and 92nd in Iowa.
Health (Climate Impacts): Expected changes in community health resulting from a warming climate show low vulnerability, ranking in the 15th national percentile.
Extreme Events: Historical and projected extreme weather event occurrences show moderate vulnerability, ranking in the 35th national percentile.
Overall Vulnerability:
Johnson County's overall climate vulnerability ranks it 95th out of 99 counties in Iowa, with a score that is in the 6th national vulnerability percentile (lowest vulnerability). This indicates that while there are specific high-risk areas, the county's overall vulnerability is considerably lower than most places nationally.
North Liberty, Johnson County
North Liberty Livability Stats:
Suburban ● $$ ● Schools: A ● Crime: B ● Community Health: Above Average ● Nearby Airport
North Liberty Homes for Sale and Rent
North Liberty is a growing, family-friendly community located in the heart of the Iowa City-Cedar Rapids region. Its desirable location provides residents with a blend of suburban living and easy access to big-city amenities. The city has seen significant growth and is known for its community spirit and a strong emphasis on outdoor activities and local events.
The economy in North Liberty is robust, with a median household income of over $100,000 and a low poverty rate. Major industries include healthcare, education, and manufacturing. The city's location on Interstate 380 makes it a convenient place to live for those commuting to nearby cities like Iowa City and Cedar Rapids. For education, North Liberty is served by two school districts: the Iowa City Community School District and the Clear Creek Amana School District. The city is home to several public schools, including the new Liberty High School, which opened in 2017 and has an 800-seat auditorium and state-of-the-art facilities.
Residents have access to a variety of amenities and recreational opportunities. The city has numerous parks, trails, and green spaces, and is close to Lake Macbride State Park and Coralville Lake. The North Liberty Community Center offers an indoor pool, track, and gymnasiums. The city hosts annual events such as the Blues & BBQ festival in the summer and "Beat the Bitter" in the winter, which includes various games and activities.
North Liberty Climate Stats
North Liberty as part of Johnson County, exhibits a range of climate vulnerabilities and areas of resilience. The county's overall climate vulnerability is relatively low compared to the national average.
Key Vulnerabilities:
Exposures & Risks: This is a significant area of concern, with Johnson County's vulnerability ranking in the 92nd national percentile and the 1st highest in Iowa. This category includes historical and projected extreme weather events.
Temperature: The vulnerability to temperature ranks in the 90th national percentile, indicating a high risk factor within the county.
Social Stressors: This area also shows high vulnerability, ranking in the 81st national percentile and 90th in Iowa.
Pollution Sources: Johnson County has a notable vulnerability in this area, ranking in the 78th national percentile and 16th in Iowa.
Transition Risks: The vulnerability related to transition risks ranks in the 76th national percentile and 75th in Iowa.
Areas of Relative Resilience:
Infrastructure: The county's infrastructure is a significant strength, with an infrastructure vulnerability ranking in the 0th national percentile, indicating extremely low vulnerability.
Health (Community Baseline): Factors reflecting the baseline state of population health show very low vulnerability, ranking in the 2nd national percentile and 18th in Iowa.
Social & Economic (Community Baseline): Social and economic stressors that impact community resilience are also very low, ranking in the 3rd national percentile and 92nd in Iowa.
Health (Climate Impacts): Expected changes in community health resulting from a warming climate show low vulnerability, ranking in the 15th national percentile.
Extreme Events: Historical and projected extreme weather event occurrences show moderate vulnerability, ranking in the 35th national percentile.
Overall Vulnerability:
Johnson County's overall climate vulnerability ranks it 95th out of 99 counties in Iowa, with a score that is in the 6th national vulnerability percentile (lowest vulnerability). This indicates that while there are specific high-risk areas, the county's overall vulnerability is considerably lower than most places nationally.
LeClaire, Scott County
LeClaire Livability Stats:
Suburban ● $$ ● Schools: A ● Crime: B ● Community Health: Average ● Nearby Airport
LeClaire Homes for Sale and Rent
Living in LeClaire, offers a charming and vibrant experience, blending small-town comfort with the benefits of a larger metropolitan area. Nestled on the banks of the Mississippi River, the community provides picturesque views and a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. The city has seen significant growth, making it a lively and well-maintained place to call home. Its affordability and slower pace of life are attractive to many, while still providing easy access to the shopping, dining, and cultural attractions of the Quad Cities area, which includes Davenport and Bettendorf, Iowa, and Rock Island and Moline, Illinois.
The economy in LeClaire is robust, with a growing job market and a focus on industries like manufacturing, healthcare, and retail. The city's location on the Great River Road and its identity as the home of the TV show American Pickers also make it a popular tourist destination, supporting a thriving local business scene with unique shops, breweries, and restaurants. The city government actively encourages new businesses with revitalization programs and tax incentives.
Families in LeClaire are served by the highly-rated Pleasant Valley Community School District, which includes local elementary schools like Bridgeview and Cody. The district is known for its quality education and a strong sense of community.
LeClaire Climate Stats
Scott County, Iowa, exhibits a range of climate vulnerabilities and areas of resilience. The county's overall climate vulnerability is moderate compared to other counties in Iowa and the national average.
Key Vulnerabilities:
Infrastructure: The county's infrastructure, which includes essential structures, services, and resources, has a high vulnerability, ranking in the 96th national vulnerability percentile.
Environment: Environmental factors that pose a threat to the community's well-being are also a significant vulnerability, ranking in the 91st national vulnerability percentile.
Flooding: Flooding is a key vulnerability, ranking 10th out of 99 counties in Iowa.
Land Use: Land use in the county ranks as 88th out of 99 counties in Iowa for vulnerability.
Areas of Relative Resilience:
Community Baseline: The long-standing inequities shaping resilience to climate impacts rank 15th out of 99 counties in Iowa, with a lower vulnerability score in the 25th national percentile.
Social & Economic: Social and economic stressors that impact community resilience have a low vulnerability, ranking in the 24th national vulnerability percentile.
Health: Factors reflecting the baseline state of population health show low vulnerability, ranking in the 17th national vulnerability percentile.
Climate Impacts: The county's vulnerability to environmental and economic disruptions due to climate change ranks 95th out of 99 counties in Iowa, with a low vulnerability score of 22nd national percentile.
Overall Vulnerability:
Scott County's overall climate vulnerability ranks it 47th out of 99 counties in Iowa, with a score that is in the 21st national vulnerability percentile. This indicates that while there are specific high-risk areas, the county's overall vulnerability is considerably lower than most places nationally.
Iowa: Congressional District 3
Iowa: Congressional District 3
Living in this Iowa region offers a quintessential Midwestern lifestyle, blending a strong sense of community with a notably affordable cost of living. This region, which includes the Des Moines metropolitan area and stretches across the state's southwestern quadrant to the Missouri border, makes homeownership a realistic goal for a broader range of residents due to significantly more accessible housing than in many other parts of the country.
The economy of this area is surprisingly diverse and robust, extending well beyond its traditional agricultural roots. While agriculture remains a foundational industry, there are strong sectors in finance and insurance, particularly in the state's capital, as well as significant manufacturing and logistics presences. The region is also a hub for healthcare and education, anchored by major universities that drive innovation and provide employment. This economic mix fosters a stable job market with a variety of opportunities. For families, the educational landscape is a key draw; numerous public school districts throughout the area are highly rated, often providing excellent academic programs and a supportive environment, contributing to the overall appeal and livability of these Iowa communities.
Much of this district includes areas designated Lower and Lowest Vulnerability on the US Climate Vulnerability Index.
COMMUNITY SNAPSHOTS
Ankeny, Polk County
Ankeny Livability Stats:
Suburban ● $$ ● Schools: A ● Crime: B ● Community Health: Above Average ● Nearby Airport
Ankeny Homes for Sale and Rent
Ankeny offers a thriving and growing community that has managed to retain a welcoming, suburban feel. It's often recognized for its excellent quality of life and is located just north of Des Moines, providing residents with both local charm and metropolitan access.
Residents benefit from a diverse and expanding economy, with top employment sectors in Finance & Insurance, Health Care & Social Assistance, and Retail Trade. The city's employment grew at a rate of 2.98% from 2022 to 2023, providing a strong job market.
The Ankeny Community School District is a premier school district in Iowa, known for its excellence in academics, athletics, and the arts. The city is also a hub for higher education, home to the main campus of Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC), which serves over 28,000 students across its central Iowa locations.
Beyond economic and educational advantages, Ankeny boasts a robust park system with over 600 acres of parks and 100 miles of trails. Recreational opportunities also include aquatic centers, an Otter Creek Golf Course, and various community events. Its proximity to Des Moines further enhances its appeal, offering the best of both local community life and access to the amenities of a larger city.
As part of Polk County, Ankeny shares climate vulnerabilities common to other communities in the state, including significant risks from temperature-related issues, pollution, and flooding. The county, however, also shows some areas of resilience, with its overall climate vulnerability being in the lower vulnerability range compared to the national average.
Key Vulnerabilities:
Temperature: The county's vulnerability to temperature ranks in the 97th national percentile, which is the 2nd highest in Iowa. This is a significant risk factor within the county.
Pollution Sources: The county has a high vulnerability in this area, ranking in the 93rd national percentile and 3rd in the state.
Exposures & Risks: This is a major area of concern for Polk County, with its vulnerability ranking in the 91st national percentile and the 2nd highest in Iowa.
Flooding: The vulnerability to flooding ranks in the 87th national percentile, making it the highest in Iowa.
Mental Health & Deaths of Despair: This area also shows high vulnerability, ranking in the 83rd national percentile and 2nd in Iowa.
Areas of Relative Resilience:
Infrastructure: The county's infrastructure is a point of strength, with an infrastructure vulnerability ranking in the 6th national percentile.
Health: Factors reflecting the baseline state of population health show low vulnerability, ranking in the 16th national percentile. Expected changes in community health from a warming climate also show low vulnerability, ranking in the 20th national percentile.
Social & Economic Factors: The county's social and economic stressors that impact community resilience have a moderate vulnerability, ranking in the 32nd national percentile.
Overall Climate Impacts: How a community is vulnerable to environmental and economic disruptions ranks as the 97th lowest in Iowa.
Overall Vulnerability:
Polk County's overall climate vulnerability ranks it 39th out of 99 counties in Iowa, with a score that is in the 23rd national vulnerability percentile (lower vulnerability). This indicates that while there are specific high-risk areas, the county's overall vulnerability is considerably lower than most places nationally.
Ankeny Climate Stats
Clive, Polk County
Clive Livability Stats:
Suburban ● $$ ● Schools: A ● Crime: B ● Community Health: Above Average ● Nearby Airport
Clive offers a dynamic suburban experience, blending the comforts of a family-friendly community with easy access to the amenities of the greater Des Moines metro area. Residents benefit from an extensive parks system, including the Clive Greenbelt Trail, a nine-mile recreational trail, and the Clive Aquatic Center.
The economy in Clive is primarily residential, serving as a suburb of Des Moines. While many residents commute to jobs in the wider metro area, the local economy is supported by a variety of businesses along major thoroughfares, including 86th Street and Hickman Road. Management, sales, and education are among the most common occupations for residents.
For families, the city is served by parts of the West Des Moines Community School District and the Waukee Community School District, both of which offer a variety of educational programs. Residents also have access to higher education institutions in the area like Des Moines Area Community College and Drake University. Healthcare needs are met by facilities such as MercyOne Clive Rehabilitation Hospital and MercyOne Clive Urgent Care, providing comprehensive inpatient rehabilitation and walk-in services for non-life-threatening conditions. This strong infrastructure, coupled with the city's natural beauty and recreational offerings, makes Clive a highly desirable place to live.
Clive Climate Stats
As part of Polk County, Clive shares climate vulnerabilities common to other communities in the state, including significant risks from temperature-related issues, pollution, and flooding. The county, however, also shows some areas of resilience, with its overall climate vulnerability being in the lower vulnerability range compared to the national average.
Key Vulnerabilities:
Temperature: The county's vulnerability to temperature ranks in the 97th national percentile, which is the 2nd highest in Iowa. This is a significant risk factor within the county.
Pollution Sources: The county has a high vulnerability in this area, ranking in the 93rd national percentile and 3rd in the state.
Exposures & Risks: This is a major area of concern for Polk County, with its vulnerability ranking in the 91st national percentile and the 2nd highest in Iowa.
Flooding: The vulnerability to flooding ranks in the 87th national percentile, making it the highest in Iowa.
Mental Health & Deaths of Despair: This area also shows high vulnerability, ranking in the 83rd national percentile and 2nd in Iowa.
Areas of Relative Resilience:
Infrastructure: The county's infrastructure is a point of strength, with an infrastructure vulnerability ranking in the 6th national percentile.
Health: Factors reflecting the baseline state of population health show low vulnerability, ranking in the 16th national percentile. Expected changes in community health from a warming climate also show low vulnerability, ranking in the 20th national percentile.
Social & Economic Factors: The county's social and economic stressors that impact community resilience have a moderate vulnerability, ranking in the 32nd national percentile.
Overall Climate Impacts: How a community is vulnerable to environmental and economic disruptions ranks as the 97th lowest in Iowa.
Overall Vulnerability:
Polk County's overall climate vulnerability ranks it 39th out of 99 counties in Iowa, with a score that is in the 23rd national vulnerability percentile (lower vulnerability). This indicates that while there are specific high-risk areas, the county's overall vulnerability is considerably lower than most places nationally.
We have put together a comprehensive guide for Iowa that includes:
Modeling data about climate risks, vulnerabilities, and strengths;
Political Context and Competitiveness;
Community Overview of the Region and Neighborhoods;
Economic Opportunity and Cost of Living; diversified economy with growing opportunities;
Schools and Education;
Civic Engagement Opportunities, including political, community and advocacy organizations.
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Why Iowa Represents the Future
Iowa embodies the kind of place where you can find some stability in a changing environment.
The climate is less vulnerable than much of the country.
Your vote genuinely matters in one of the nation's most competitive districts
Your voice can influence policy through accessible local government and civic engagement
Your life can flourish with affordable living, economic opportunity, and community connection
Your presence helps build the inclusive, competitive democracy we all need
This isn't just a place to find refuge—it's a place to build the future.