Oak Grove, Iowa City,IA

If you’re considering a move to Iowa City, the Oak Grove neighborhood in the southeast part of town offers a wonderful blend of community charm and convenient amenities. Known for its quiet, tree-lined streets and well-maintained homes, Oak Grove creates a welcoming atmosphere perfect for families, professionals, and retirees alike. Residents here enjoy easy access to several parks and green spaces, making it a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts who love walking, biking, or spending time in nature without straying far from home.

One of the highlights of Oak Grove is its proximity to the Coralville Reservoir and its surrounding recreational areas. This nearby attraction provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and picnicking, making weekends feel like a mini getaway. The neighborhood also boasts local shopping centers and eateries that cater to everyday needs, so you won’t have to travel far for groceries or a casual meal. For those who enjoy community events, Oak Grove often hosts neighborhood gatherings and seasonal activities that foster a strong sense of connection among residents.

When it comes to convenience, Oak Grove is just a short drive northeast to Downtown Iowa City, typically taking around 10-15 minutes depending on traffic. This close proximity means you can easily enjoy the vibrant arts scene, diverse restaurants, and cultural events downtown while retreating to the peaceful comfort of your Oak Grove home at the end of the day. Whether you’re drawn to the neighborhood’s natural beauty, its family-friendly vibe, or its convenient location, Oak Grove stands out as a fantastic choice for anyone relocating to the Iowa City area.

About 34% of the Oak Grove population aged 16 and older are married, which is notably lower than average. This could suggest a community with a younger, more transient population—perhaps made up of students, professionals, or renters. It may also reflect a neighborhood that attracts singles or couples without children, contributing to a more independent, urban lifestyle.

With only 17% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Oak Grove demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 391 residents, Oak Grove is notably smaller than many other Iowa City neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

Oak Grove has a population density of 3,502, which strikes a balanced feel when compared to other Iowa City neighborhoods. The area offers just the right mix of activity and breathing room, creating a community that’s lively yet comfortable, with easy access to amenities and everyday conveniences.

With an average age of 35, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

The Oak Grove crime map provides an in-depth look at crime rates throughout the community, using block group data to reveal both safer pockets and places with more frequent incidents. By visualizing these patterns, the crime map helps residents and newcomers alike better understand the dynamics of neighborhood safety. It’s worth noting that higher-crime areas on the map aren’t always indicative of danger — spots near busy commercial centers, transportation hubs, or popular attractions may naturally show more reports due to increased activity.

Housing prices can reveal a lot about the balance and overall appeal of a neighborhood. In Oak Grove, the median home price is about $224,100, which is on par with many comparable areas. This average pricing reflects a stable, affordable housing market and makes the neighborhood an appealing choice for a wide range of buyers seeking both value and long-term potential. Examining how home prices and appreciation rates in Oak Grove have shifted over time can reveal important clues about the neighborhood’s future value. These trends help potential buyers and investors understand market momentum and determine whether the area is likely to deliver strong returns over the long term.

The median rent is around $1,224, which is on par with many comparable neighborhoods. This balanced pricing offers a mix of affordability and value, making it a practical choice for a wide range of renters.

School quality plays an important role in shaping the overall appeal of a neighborhood like Oak Grove. Ratings based on student achievement, graduation rates, and standardized tests — supported by national benchmarks like the NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) — help paint a clearer picture of how local schools perform. Additionally, understanding the education levels of residents in Oak Grove offers valuable context about the community’s emphasis on learning and opportunity, helping families make confident decisions about where to settle and invest in their children’s future.