We’ve identified communities where you will be safe and welcome, in States with low Income Taxes and where your vote will be a game-changer at the ballot box.Iowa: Field of Opportunity
Iowa: Congressional District 1
Located in the southeastern part of the state and bordering the Mississippi River, Iowa Congressional District 1 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.
Regarding taxes, Iowa has a flat income tax of 3.8% individual income tax. As of January 1, 2025, it does the state of either an estate or inheritance tax.
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.
Ankeny Tax Stats
Understanding the tax landscape in Ankeny, Iowa, involves looking at the state, county, and city levels, as well as the different types of taxes that apply.
State Level Taxes:
Income Tax: Iowa has been gradually phasing in a flat income tax rate, which officially went into effect at a flat rate of 3.8% on January 1, 2025. This change replaces the previous progressive tax system that had multiple tax brackets. For taxpayers aged 55 and older, all retirement income, including pensions, annuities, and distributions from 401(k)s and IRAs, is also exempt from state income tax.
Sales Tax: The state of Iowa has a baseline sales tax rate of 6.0%. This applies to most goods and services, with exemptions for items like most groceries and prescription medications.
Estate and Inheritance Tax: Iowa has historically had an inheritance tax, but it has been officially repealed for deaths occurring on or after January 1, 2025. This means that beneficiaries no longer have to pay a state tax on the assets they inherit from an Iowa resident. Similar to Florida, large estates may still be subject to the federal estate tax.
County and City Level Taxes:
Sales Tax (Combined Rate): While Iowa has a 6.0% state sales tax, local jurisdictions can add a local option sales tax. For Ankeny, there is no additional local option sales tax from the city or Polk County, bringing the combined sales tax rate for purchases in Ankeny to 6.0%.
Property Taxes: Property taxes are a significant source of revenue for local governments in Iowa. In Ankeny, your property tax bill is determined by two main factors: the assessed value of your property and the millage rate.
Assessed Value: The value of your property is assessed by the Polk County Assessor's Office. A unique feature of Iowa's system is the "assessment limitation," commonly referred to as the "rollback," which is applied to assessed values. The rollback percentage is a statewide adjustment that reduces a property's assessed value to a lower, taxable value to help control tax increases during periods of inflation.
Millage Rate: This is a combination of rates set by different taxing authorities. For Ankeny residents, this includes rates from the City of Ankeny, Polk County, and the Ankeny Community School District. The total millage rate is the sum of these different rates. For Fiscal Year 2025, the City of Ankeny's millage rate was approximately $9.90 (per $1,000 of taxable valuation). The Ankeny Community School District's total district levy was approximately $16.05 (per $1,000 of taxable valuation).
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 Tax Stats
Understanding the tax landscape in Iowa City involves looking at the state, county, and city levels, as well as the different types of taxes that apply.
State Level Taxes:
Income Tax: Iowa has been gradually phasing in a flat income tax rate, which officially went into effect at a flat rate of 3.8% on January 1, 2025. This change replaces the previous progressive tax system that had multiple tax brackets. For taxpayers aged 55 and older, all retirement income, including pensions, annuities, and distributions from 401(k)s and IRAs, is also exempt from state income tax.
Sales Tax: The state of Iowa has a baseline sales tax rate of 6.0%. This applies to most goods and services, with exemptions for items like most groceries and prescription medications.
Estate and Inheritance Tax: Iowa has historically had an inheritance tax, but it has been officially repealed for deaths occurring on or after January 1, 2025. This means that beneficiaries no longer have to pay a state tax on the assets they inherit from an Iowa resident. Similar to Florida, large estates may still be subject to the federal estate tax.
County and City Level Taxes:
Sales Tax (Combined Rate): While Iowa has a 6.0% state sales tax, many local jurisdictions can add a local option sales tax. For Iowa City, the city and Johnson County do not add any additional local option sales tax. This means the combined sales tax rate for purchases in Iowa City is 6.0%.
Property Taxes: Property taxes are a significant source of revenue for local governments in Iowa. In Iowa City, your property tax bill is determined by two main factors: the assessed value of your property and the millage rate.
Assessed Value: The value of your property is assessed by the Johnson County Assessor's Office. A unique feature of Iowa's system is the "assessment limitation," commonly referred to as the "rollback," which is applied to assessed values. The rollback percentage is a statewide adjustment that reduces a property's assessed value to a lower, taxable value to help control tax increases during periods of inflation.
Millage Rate: This is a combination of rates set by different taxing authorities. For Iowa City residents, this includes rates from the City of Iowa City, Johnson County, and the Iowa City Community School District. The total millage rate is the sum of these different rates. For example, for Fiscal Year 2024, the millage rates were approximately $15.63 for the City of Iowa City, $6.06 for Johnson County, and $16.27 for the Iowa City Community School District (per $1,000 of taxable valuation).
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 Tax Stats
Understanding the tax landscape in Clive, Iowa, involves looking at the state, county, and city levels, as well as the different types of taxes that apply.
State Level Taxes:
Income Tax: Iowa has been gradually phasing in a flat income tax rate, which officially went into effect at a flat rate of 3.8% on January 1, 2025. This change replaces the previous progressive tax system that had multiple tax brackets. For taxpayers aged 55 and older, all retirement income, including pensions, annuities, and distributions from 401(k)s and IRAs, is also exempt from state income tax.
Sales Tax: The state of Iowa has a baseline sales tax rate of 6.0%. This applies to most goods and services, with exemptions for items like most groceries and prescription medications.
Estate and Inheritance Tax: Iowa has historically had an inheritance tax, but it has been officially repealed for deaths occurring on or after January 1, 2025. This means that beneficiaries no longer have to pay a state tax on the assets they inherit from an Iowa resident. Similar to Florida, large estates may still be subject to the federal estate tax.
County and City Level Taxes:
Sales Tax (Combined Rate): While Iowa has a 6.0% state sales tax, many local jurisdictions add a local option sales tax. For Clive, there is an additional 1.0% local option sales tax, bringing the combined sales tax rate for purchases to 7.0%.
Property Taxes: Property taxes are a significant source of revenue for local governments in Iowa. In Clive, your property tax bill is determined by two main factors: the assessed value of your property and the millage rate.
Assessed Value: The value of your property is assessed by the Polk County Assessor's Office. A unique feature of Iowa's system is the "assessment limitation," commonly referred to as the "rollback," which is applied to assessed values. The rollback percentage is a statewide adjustment that reduces a property's assessed value to a lower, taxable value to help control tax increases during periods of inflation.
Millage Rate: This is a combination of rates set by different taxing authorities. For Clive residents, this includes rates from the City of Clive, Polk County, and the relevant school districts (Waukee and West Des Moines). The total millage rate is the sum of these different rates. For Fiscal Year 2025, the City of Clive's millage rate was approximately $9.92 (per $1,000 of taxable valuation). The Waukee Community School District's total district levy was approximately $17.80 (per $1,000 of taxable valuation), and the West Des Moines Community School District's total levy was approximately $12.22 (per $1,000 of taxable valuation).
LeClaire, Scott County
Le Claire Livability Stats:
Suburban ● $$ ● Schools: B ● Crime: B ● Community Health: Average
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.
Le Claire Tax Stats
Understanding the tax landscape in Le Claire involves looking at the state, county, and city levels, as well as the different types of taxes that apply.
State Level Taxes:
Income Tax: Iowa has been gradually phasing in a flat income tax rate, which officially went into effect at a flat rate of 3.8% on January 1, 2025. This change replaces the previous progressive tax system that had multiple tax brackets. For taxpayers aged 55 and older, all retirement income, including pensions, annuities, and distributions from 401(k)s and IRAs, is also exempt from state income tax.
Sales Tax: The state of Iowa has a baseline sales tax rate of 6.0%. This applies to most goods and services, with exemptions for items like most groceries and prescription medications.
Estate and Inheritance Tax: Iowa has historically had an inheritance tax, but it has been officially repealed for deaths occurring on or after January 1, 2025. This means that beneficiaries no longer have to pay a state tax on the assets they inherit from an Iowa resident. Similar to Florida, large estates may still be subject to the federal estate tax.
County and City Level Taxes:
Sales Tax (Combined Rate): While Iowa has a 6.0% state sales tax, local jurisdictions can add a local option sales tax. For Le Claire, both the city and Scott County add an additional 1% local option sales tax, bringing the combined sales tax rate for purchases in Le Claire to 7.0%.
Property Taxes: Property taxes are a significant source of revenue for local governments in Iowa. In Le Claire, your property tax bill is determined by two main factors: the assessed value of your property and the millage rate.
Assessed Value: The value of your property is assessed by the Scott County Assessor's Office. A unique feature of Iowa's system is the "assessment limitation," commonly referred to as the "rollback," which is applied to assessed values. The rollback percentage is a statewide adjustment that reduces a property's assessed value to a lower, taxable value to help control tax increases during periods of inflation.
Millage Rate: This is a combination of rates set by different taxing authorities. For Le Claire residents, this includes rates from the City of Le Claire, Scott County, and the Pleasant Valley Community School District. The total millage rate is the sum of these different rates. For Fiscal Year 2024, the millage rate for the City of Le Claire was approximately $12.64 (per $1,000 of taxable valuation). The Pleasant Valley Community School District's millage rate was approximately $25.10.
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.
Regarding taxes, Iowa has a flat income tax of 3.8% individual income tax. As of January 1, 2025, it does the state of either an estate or inheritance tax.
COMMUNITY SNAPSHOTS
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 Tax Stats
Understanding the tax landscape in Coralville involves looking at the state, county, and city levels, as well as the different types of taxes that apply.
State Level Taxes:
Income Tax: Iowa has been gradually phasing in a flat income tax rate, which officially went into effect at a flat rate of 3.8% on January 1, 2025. This change replaces the previous progressive tax system that had multiple tax brackets. For taxpayers aged 55 and older, all retirement income, including pensions, annuities, and distributions from 401(k)s and IRAs, is also exempt from state income tax.
Sales Tax: The state of Iowa has a baseline sales tax rate of 6.0%. This applies to most goods and services, with exemptions for items like most groceries and prescription medications.
Estate and Inheritance Tax: Iowa has historically had an inheritance tax, but it has been officially repealed for deaths occurring on or after January 1, 2025. This means that beneficiaries no longer have to pay a state tax on the assets they inherit from an Iowa resident. Similar to Florida, large estates may still be subject to the federal estate tax.
County and City Level Taxes:
Sales Tax (Combined Rate): While Iowa has a 6.0% state sales tax, many local jurisdictions can add a local option sales tax. For Coralville, the city and Johnson County do not add any additional local option sales tax. This means the combined sales tax rate for purchases in Coralville is 6.0%.
Property Taxes: Property taxes are a significant source of revenue for local governments in Iowa. In Coralville, your property tax bill is determined by two main factors: the assessed value of your property and the millage rate.
Assessed Value: The value of your property is assessed by the Johnson County Assessor's Office. A unique feature of Iowa's system is the "assessment limitation," commonly referred to as the "rollback," which is applied to assessed values. The rollback percentage is a statewide adjustment that reduces a property's assessed value to a lower, taxable value to help control tax increases during periods of inflation.
Millage Rate: This is a combination of rates set by different taxing authorities. For Coralville residents, this includes rates from the City of Coralville, Johnson County, and the Iowa City Community School District. The total millage rate is the sum of these different rates. For example, for Fiscal Year 2024, the millage rates were approximately $14.31 for the City of Coralville, $6.06 for Johnson County, and $16.27 for the Iowa City School District (per $1,000 of taxable valuation).
West Des Moines, Polk County
West Des Moines Livability Stats:
Suburban ● $$ ● Schools: A ● Crime: B ● Community Health: Above Average ● Nearby Airport
West Des Moines Homes for Sale and Rent
Living in West Des Moines, Iowa, presents a compelling blend of suburban comfort and urban accessibility. The city is a hub of community-focused living, characterized by its well-kept neighborhoods, abundant parks, and a strong sense of local pride. Families are particularly drawn to West Des Moines due to the highly-regarded public school system, which is known for its excellent academic opportunities and wide range of extracurricular activities.
One of the most attractive aspects of life in this city is its remarkably low cost of living. Compared to the national average, West Des Moines residents enjoy significantly more affordable housing, utilities, and transportation, which allows for a higher quality of life and greater financial stability. The city's economy is robust, with a thriving business community and a wide variety of employment options ranging from corporate offices to a flourishing retail sector. This economic vitality, combined with the favorable cost of living, makes it a desirable place for young professionals and families alike. While it provides a peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere, West Des Moines also serves as the retail and entertainment epicenter of the Des Moines metro area. Upscale shopping at Jordan Creek Town Center, diverse culinary experiences, and proximity to downtown Des Moines' cultural attractions ensure that residents have the best of both worlds, offering a lifestyle that is both tranquil and dynamic.
West Des Moines Tax Stats
Understanding the tax landscape in West Des Moines, Iowa, involves looking at the state, county, and city levels, as well as the different types of taxes that apply.
State Level Taxes:
Income Tax: Iowa has been gradually phasing in a flat income tax rate, which officially went into effect at a flat rate of 3.8% on January 1, 2025. This change replaces the previous progressive tax system that had multiple tax brackets. For taxpayers aged 55 and older, all retirement income, including pensions, annuities, and distributions from 401(k)s and IRAs, is also exempt from state income tax.
Sales Tax: The state of Iowa has a baseline sales tax rate of 6.0%. This applies to most goods and services, with exemptions for items like most groceries and prescription medications.
Estate and Inheritance Tax: Iowa has historically had an inheritance tax, but it has been officially repealed for deaths occurring on or after January 1, 2025. This means that beneficiaries no longer have to pay a state tax on the assets they inherit from an Iowa resident. Similar to Florida, large estates may still be subject to the federal estate tax.
County and City Level Taxes:
Sales Tax (Combined Rate): While Iowa has a 6.0% state sales tax, many local jurisdictions add a local option sales tax. For West Des Moines, there is an additional 1.0% local option sales tax, bringing the combined sales tax rate for purchases to 7.0%.
Property Taxes: Property taxes are a significant source of revenue for local governments in Iowa. In West Des Moines, your property tax bill is determined by two main factors: the assessed value of your property and the millage rate.
Assessed Value: The value of your property is assessed by the Polk County Assessor's Office. A unique feature of Iowa's system is the "assessment limitation," commonly referred to as the "rollback," which is applied to assessed values. The rollback percentage is a statewide adjustment that reduces a property's assessed value to a lower, taxable value to help control tax increases during periods of inflation.
Millage Rate: This is a combination of rates set by different taxing authorities. For West Des Moines residents, this includes rates from the City of West Des Moines, Polk County, and the West Des Moines Community School District. The total millage rate is the sum of these different rates. For Fiscal Year 2025, the City of West Des Moines's total millage rate was approximately $10.85 (per $1,000 of taxable valuation). The West Des Moines Community School District's total levy was approximately $12.22 (per $1,000 of taxable valuation).
North Liberty, Johnson County
North Liberty Livability Stats:
Suburban ● $$$ ● Schools: A ● Crime: B ● Community Health: Above Average
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 Tax Stats
Understanding the tax landscape in North Liberty involves looking at the state, county, and city levels, as well as the different types of taxes that apply.
State Level Taxes:
Income Tax: Iowa has been gradually phasing in a flat income tax rate, which officially went into effect at a flat rate of 3.8% on January 1, 2025. This change replaces the previous progressive tax system that had multiple tax brackets. For taxpayers aged 55 and older, all retirement income, including pensions, annuities, and distributions from 401(k)s and IRAs, is also exempt from state income tax.
Sales Tax: The state of Iowa has a baseline sales tax rate of 6.0%. This applies to most goods and services, with exemptions for items like most groceries and prescription medications.
Estate and Inheritance Tax: Iowa has historically had an inheritance tax, but it has been officially repealed for deaths occurring on or after January 1, 2025. This means that beneficiaries no longer have to pay a state tax on the assets they inherit from an Iowa resident. Similar to Florida, large estates may still be subject to the federal estate tax.
County and City Level Taxes:
Sales Tax (Combined Rate): While Iowa has a 6.0% state sales tax, many local jurisdictions can add a local option sales tax. For North Liberty, the city and Johnson County do not add any additional local option sales tax. This means the combined sales tax rate for purchases in North Liberty is 6.0%.
Property Taxes: Property taxes are a significant source of revenue for local governments in Iowa. In North Liberty, your property tax bill is determined by two main factors: the assessed value of your property and the millage rate.
Assessed Value: The value of your property is assessed by the Johnson County Assessor's Office. A unique feature of Iowa's system is the "assessment limitation," commonly referred to as the "rollback," which is applied to assessed values. The rollback percentage is a statewide adjustment that reduces a property's assessed value to a lower, taxable value to help control tax increases during periods of inflation.
Millage Rate: This is a combination of rates set by different taxing authorities. For North Liberty residents, this includes rates from the City of North Liberty, Johnson County, and the Clear Creek Amana Community School District. The total millage rate is the sum of these different rates. For example, for Fiscal Year 2024, the millage rates were approximately $11.45 for the City of North Liberty, $6.06 for Johnson County, and $17.07 for the Clear Creek Amana School District (per $1,000 of taxable valuation).
Waterbury, Des Moines Scott County
Waterbury Livability Stats:
Suburban ● $$ ● Schools: B ● Crime: N/A ● Community Health: Above Average
Waterbury Homes for Sale and Rent
Living in the Waterbury neighborhood of Des Moines offers a distinct and attractive lifestyle that combines historic charm with a convenient urban setting. Known for its stately, historic homes, including beautiful brick Tudors and bungalows, the area has a classic, tree-lined feel that residents cherish. The community is tight-knit and well-established, with a reputation for friendly neighbors and a serene atmosphere.
Waterbury is often cited as one of the best neighborhoods in Des Moines to live and raise a family, in part because of its access to excellent public schools. Residents are served by the Des Moines Public Schools system, which is known for providing strong academic and extracurricular programs.
While the overall cost of living in Des Moines is notably lower than the national average, the Waterbury neighborhood itself is an exception. Home prices are significantly higher than the city's median, reflecting the desirability of its historic properties, large lots, and prime location. This higher cost is balanced by the area's many advantages, including a high quality of life and easy access to local parks, coffee shops, and the vibrant amenities of downtown Des Moines, which is just a short commute away.
Waterbury Tax Stats
Understanding the tax landscape in Des Moines, Iowa, involves looking at the state, county, and city levels, as well as the different types of taxes that apply. Since the Waterbury neighborhood is located within the city of Des Moines, its residents are subject to these tax structures.
State Level Taxes:
Income Tax: Iowa has been gradually phasing in a flat income tax rate, which officially went into effect at a flat rate of 3.8% on January 1, 2025. This change replaces the previous progressive tax system that had multiple tax brackets. For taxpayers aged 55 and older, all retirement income, including pensions, annuities, and distributions from 401(k)s and IRAs, is also exempt from state income tax.
Sales Tax: The state of Iowa has a baseline sales tax rate of 6.0%. This applies to most goods and services, with exemptions for items like most groceries and prescription medications.
Estate and Inheritance Tax: Iowa has historically had an inheritance tax, but it has been officially repealed for deaths occurring on or after January 1, 2025. This means that beneficiaries no longer have to pay a state tax on the assets they inherit from an Iowa resident. Similar to Florida, large estates may still be subject to the federal estate tax.
County and City Level Taxes:
Sales Tax (Combined Rate): While Iowa has a 6.0% state sales tax, local jurisdictions often add a local option sales tax. For Des Moines, there is an additional 1.0% local option sales tax, bringing the combined sales tax rate for purchases to 7.0%.
Property Taxes: Property taxes are a significant source of revenue for local governments in Iowa. In Des Moines, your property tax bill is determined by two main factors: the assessed value of your property and the millage rate.
Assessed Value: The value of your property is assessed by the Polk County Assessor's Office. A unique feature of Iowa's system is the "assessment limitation," commonly referred to as the "rollback," which is applied to assessed values. The rollback percentage is a statewide adjustment that reduces a property's assessed value to a lower, taxable value to help control tax increases during periods of inflation.
Millage Rate: This is a combination of rates set by different taxing authorities. For Des Moines residents, this includes rates from the City of Des Moines, Polk County, and the Des Moines Public School District. The total millage rate is the sum of these different rates. For Fiscal Year 2025, the City of Des Moines's total levy was approximately $16.61 (per $1,000 of taxable valuation). The Des Moines Public School District's total levy was approximately $14.71 (per $1,000 of taxable valuation).
We have put together a comprehensive guide for Iowa that includes:
Information about State and Local Taxes;
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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