Is Dubuque Safe, Pros and cons of living in Dubuque
Dubuque, Iowa, offers a blend of historical charm and modern amenities, situated along the scenic Mississippi River. As the oldest city in Iowa, it boasts a unique architectural landscape and a revitalized downtown area that draws visitors and residents alike. The city’s location in the Tri-State Area, at the intersection of Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin, provides a distinct regional identity and access to a broader economic and cultural sphere.
The community is known for its innovative spirit and commitment to preserving its rich history while embracing future growth. With a variety of recreational opportunities, a dynamic arts and culture scene, and a strong educational network, Dubuque presents itself as a compelling place to build a modern life. The city’s dedication to progress is evident in its ongoing development and its recognition as a desirable place to live and work.
Is it Safe to Live in Dubuque?
Dubuque’s overall crime rate is reported to be moderate, with some sources indicating it is slightly higher than the national average, while others state it is 13% lower than the national average per 100,000 residents. The chance of being a victim of crime in Dubuque can vary significantly by neighborhood, with some areas being considerably safer than others (as reported by AreaVibes and NeighborhoodScout). Residents generally perceive the northwest part of the city as the safest (as reported by CrimeGrade.org).
Violent crime rates in Dubuque are reported to be around the national average, with specific categories like rape showing a higher rate than the national average, while robbery is lower (as reported by Niche). Property crime rates are generally lower than the national average (as reported by AreaVibes). The cost of crime per resident is noted to be lower than the national average (as reported by CrimeGrade.org).
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Dubuque is generally considered to be lower than the national average. Housing expenses are notably lower, with median home values and rental prices significantly below national figures (as reported by Livability.com and Apartments.com). This affordability extends to various aspects of daily life, making Dubuque an attractive option for those seeking to manage their expenses.
Dubuque’s cost of living is approximately 9% lower than the national average (as reported by Payscale and Livingcost.org). While housing and utilities are cheaper, transportation costs, such as gas prices, are slightly higher than the national average (as reported by Payscale). Groceries and healthcare expenses are also reported to be lower than the national average (as reported by Payscale).
Housing Market
Dubuque’s housing market offers relatively affordable options for both buyers and renters. The median listing price for a home is around $250,000, with some sources indicating a median home value closer to $195,791 or $330,000 depending on the source and specific area (as reported by Livability.com, Prop:Metrics, and Apartments.com). This median home price is considerably lower than the national average (as reported by Apartments.com).
Rental prices in Dubuque are also competitive, with the average rent being around $1,060 per month, which is significantly lower than the national average (as reported by Zumper and Zillow). The market shows a healthy inventory of both homes for sale and rental properties, with a moderate pace for homes on the market (as reported by Dubuque, IA Housing Market & Rental Trends). Most residents in Dubuque own their homes, with only about 34% renting (as reported by Niche).
Job Market and Economy
Dubuque’s economy is diverse, with key sectors including education and health services, manufacturing, and trade. Major employers in the area contribute significantly to the local job market, providing a range of employment opportunities (as reported by Greater Dubuque Development Corporation and Iowa Workforce Development). The city has seen a shift from heavy industry towards sectors like tourism, technology, and publishing in recent decades.
The average salary in Dubuque is reported to be around $49,240 annually, or approximately $23.67 per hour (as reported by ZipRecruiter). Other sources indicate a higher average hourly wage of $28.12 or an annual average of $61,275 (as reported by ERI SalaryExpert and Iowa Workforce Development). The unemployment rate in Dubuque was 3.50% as of January 2026, which is lower than the long-term average (as reported by YCharts and United States Federal Reserve).
Major Employers
Several prominent companies and institutions serve as major employers in Dubuque, contributing to the city’s economic vitality. These include John Deere Dubuque Works, MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center, and Cottingham & Butler (as reported by This Is Iowa and Greater Dubuque Development Corporation). Other significant employers span various industries, from healthcare and education to manufacturing and technology.
The education and health services sector is the largest supersector in the Dubuque Metropolitan Statistical Area, employing a substantial number of individuals (as reported by Iowa Workforce Development). Manufacturing also holds a significant presence, alongside trade industries, reflecting the city’s diverse economic base. Dubuque County MSA has shown strong year-over-year job growth, ranking first among Iowa’s major metros (as reported by Greater Dubuque Development Corporation).
Climate and Weather
Dubuque experiences a climate with distinct seasons, characterized by warm, wet summers and cold, snowy, and windy winters. The temperature typically ranges from 14°F to 83°F throughout the year, with extremes rarely falling below -6°F or exceeding 91°F (as reported by AccuWeather). The city enjoys a moderate amount of precipitation annually, with an average of around 39 inches of rain and snowfall combined (as reported by Livability.com and WorldWeatherOnline).
Summers in Dubuque are generally warm, with July being the hottest month, featuring average daily highs around 83°F and nighttime lows around 65°F (as reported by AccuWeather). Winters are cold, with January being the coldest month, having average daily highs near 28°F and lows around 15°F (as reported by AccuWeather and Time and Date). The city experiences significant seasonal variations in precipitation, with July being the wettest month and January the driest.
Education
Dubuque is served by the Dubuque Community School District, which includes a range of educational institutions from elementary to high schools. While the district as a whole is ranked among the lower-performing districts in Iowa, some individual schools within the district receive higher ratings and demonstrate strong academic performance (as reported by Niche and SchoolDigger.com). Schools like Bryant Elementary School and Eleanor Roosevelt Middle School are noted for their consistent performance.
Dubuque County also has public schools that show varied performance metrics. The county’s public schools have an average math proficiency score of 70% and a reading proficiency score of 68% (as reported by Niche). The city is also home to several higher education institutions, including the University of Dubuque, Loras College, and Clarke University, which contribute to the educational landscape and provide accessible resources for continued learning (as reported by This Is Iowa).
Demographics
Dubuque has a population of approximately 59,667 residents, with a slight decrease noted since the 2020 census (as reported by the Official Website of Dubuque, IA and Wikipedia). The city’s population is predominantly White, making up about 85.1% of residents, with smaller percentages of Black or African American, Hispanic or Latino, and Asian populations (as reported by the Official Website of Dubuque, IA and Neilsberg).
The average household size in Dubuque is 2.24 people (as reported by the Official Website of Dubuque, IA). The median age in Dubuque is around 38.1 years, with a slightly higher proportion of females to males (as reported by Neilsberg). The city’s population has seen some growth in diversity over the years, though it remains predominantly White (as reported by Neilsberg).
Pros and Cons of Living in Dubuque
Dubuque offers a lower cost of living, particularly in housing, making it an affordable place to settle down. The city’s scenic riverfront location and historical architecture add to its charm, while a growing economy provides employment opportunities. Its community-oriented atmosphere and access to recreational activities are also significant draws for residents.
However, crime rates, while moderate, are noted by some sources to be higher than the national average, with variations across neighborhoods. The educational system, as a whole, faces challenges, although some schools perform well. The climate includes cold, snowy winters, which may not appeal to everyone.