Short-term move to Iowa? (Des Moines, Davenport: for rent, low crime, school)

[dtd2]

I am looking at a 90-day separation from my spouse and will not be working during that time, though I may stay permanently in the place I choose if the marriage folds. I need low rent, ability to live without a car, low crime rate, good libraries, and high-speed internet service. Any possibilities in Iowa?

[Omaha Rocks]

Most of the things you mention do not go together. Not in any state.

There are tiny little towns all around Iowa, where rent is cheap. But there's no public transportation, high-speed internet, or even libraries. Plus, your kid will be getting bused 20 miles to school.

[iowegian]

^ Yep.

You basically have a choice between low rent and your other amenities. Living car-free is probably the most difficult here, but it is doable in most of the larger cities. (Personally, I'd go for Iowa City, Des Moines, Ames, or perhaps Davenport for public transport.) This also depends on your definition of "low rent" - Iowa is probably cheaper than many other places in the US and so you may find it quite affordable even in a more expensive area of Iowa, such as Iowa City. Check Craigslist for rents to get an idea.

If you decide on a city or two, post here and someone will be able to give you more information, or search the Iowa forum for past threads.

[Dport7674]

Living without a car, even in cities with decent public trans., like Des Moines, Iowa City or Davenport would be a pain intheass. And because you're living in a larger city the rent will be high.