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Pepperwood, Iowa City,IA

Neighborhood Data
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Moving to the Pepperwood neighborhood in Iowa City offers a delightful blend of suburban comfort and convenient access to vibrant city life. This area, nestled in the southeast part of Iowa City, is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and beautifully maintained homes. Residents love the peaceful streets lined with mature trees and well-kept yards, making it a great place to settle down. Whether you're relocating for work, school, or simply a change of pace, Pepperwood’s welcoming community vibe makes it easy to feel right at home from day one.

One of the standout attractions in Pepperwood is the nearby Pepperwood Park, a local gem perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families. The park features walking trails, playgrounds, and open green spaces, ideal for picnics, jogging, or simply enjoying a sunny afternoon. Additionally, the neighborhood is close to the Iowa City Public Library’s Southeast Branch, providing a wonderful resource for book lovers and those seeking community events. For everyday conveniences, residents appreciate the access to grocery stores, restaurants, and coffee shops just a short drive away, ensuring that everything you need is within easy reach.

Despite its tranquil suburban feel, Pepperwood is just a quick 10-15 minute drive northwest to Downtown Iowa City. This proximity means residents can effortlessly enjoy the bustling nightlife, eclectic dining options, and cultural experiences that the city’s heart offers. Whether it’s catching a show at the Englert Theatre, exploring the local farmers' market, or strolling through the University of Iowa campus, downtown delights are never far away. For those moving to Iowa City, Pepperwood strikes the perfect balance between peaceful neighborhood living and vibrant city access.

Community Snapshot

Population 520
Density (People/sqml.) 3,658
Median Age 30.2
Married Couples
42%
42% of the population of Pepperwood aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
30%
30% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

30% of the Pepperwood population aged 16 and up are married, which is in line with national averages. This balance suggests a neighborhood with a healthy mix of families, couples, and single residents, creating a well-rounded community dynamic. You are likely to find a blend of stability and social variety, appealing to both long-term homeowners and younger professionals alike.

With only 30% 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.

Age Breakdown

Pepperwood neighborhood age breakdown chart

Pepperwood 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 520 residents, Pepperwood 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.

Pepperwood has a population density of 3,658, 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 a lower-than-average age of 30, you're likely to find a noticeably youthful energy and vibrant atmosphere. This younger population brings a dynamic mix of activity, innovation, and community involvement, shaping a neighborhood that feels lively, forward-thinking, and full of opportunity — making it an especially appealing choice for younger adults looking for an active and engaging community.

Crime in Pepperwood

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Total Crime Incidents
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Types of Crime

Pepperwood neighborhood age breakdown chart

Pepperwood Crime Map

The Pepperwood crime map uses detailed block group boundaries from address-based crime data to visualize crime patterns across the neighborhood, highlighting both low-crime zones and areas with higher levels of reported crime. This crime heat map helps paint a clearer picture of local safety trends, showing how crime can vary from one part of the community to another. Keep in mind that areas with higher activity on the map don’t always equate to dangerous conditions — locations near entertainment districts, major roads, or tourist destinations often see more reports simply due to the larger number of people passing through.

Housing

? /10
Home Price $226,050
Median Rent $1,014
People/Household 2.9

Home Price Breakdown

Pepperwood neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 45% Own 55%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 50% After 2010 50%

Types of Homes in the Area

Market Trends

Year-over-Year YoY data

 

Housing prices can reveal a lot about the balance and overall appeal of a neighborhood. In Pepperwood, the median home price is about $226,050, 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 Pepperwood 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 $1,014, 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.

Walkability & Lifestyle

Coffee Shops

The Java House
Coffee Shop
min.
min.
Deluxe Cakes and Pastries
Coffee Shop
min.
min.

Entertainment

Marcus Sycamore Cinema
Cinema
min.
min.
Colonial Lanes
Bowling Alley
min.
min.

Food & Drink

Taco Bell
Fast Food
min.
min.
Burger King
Fast Food
min.
min.

Groceries

Panaderia Acapulco 2
Bakery
min.
min.
Panaderia Acapulco 2
Grocery Store
min.
min.

Parks

Wetherby Splash Pad
Playground
min.
min.
Wetherby Park
Park
min.
min.

Shops

Slumberland Furniture
Furniture
min.
min.
Adriana's Salon and Spa
Beauty
min.
min.

Getting Around

Transit Stops

Gateway Center, Iowa City Transit
Bus Stop
min.
min.
Riverside Drive and Benton Street
Bus Stop
min.
min.

Transit Stations

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

Hy-Vee Pharmacy
Pharmacy
min.
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UIHC Quick Care
Clinic
min.
min.

Health Care

River City Dental Care
Dentist
min.
min.
Mergen Orthodontics
Dentist
min.
min.

Safety

Iowa City Fire and Rescue Department Station 3
Fire Station
min.
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Ambulance Station
Ambulance Station
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Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
Southeast Junior High School
2501 Bradford Dr, Iowa City, IA
Elementary School 7 - 8 School Score
Mark Twain Elementary
1355 Deforest Avenue, Iowa City, IA
Elementary School PK - 6 School Score
Willowwind School
950 Dover St, Iowa City, IA
Elementary School PK - 6 School Score
Longfellow Elementary School
1130 Seymour Ave, Iowa City, IA
Elementary School PK - 6 School Score
Grant Wood Elementary School
1930 Lakeside Dr, Iowa City, IA
Elementary School PK - 6 School Score
West Senior High School
2901 Melrose Ave, Iowa City, IA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Iowa City High School
1900 Morningside Dr, Iowa City, IA
High School 9 - 12 School Score

Education Level Achieved

School ratings in Pepperwood combine factors like student performance, graduation rates, and standardized test scores to provide a clear picture of overall educational quality. The use of NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores adds valuable context by offering a consistent national benchmark to see how local schools compare on a broader scale. Additionally, understanding the overall education level achieved by residents in Pepperwood can give insight into the community’s priorities and opportunities, helping families make more informed decisions about where to live and how well local schools may support long-term student success.

Economy

? /10
Income Per Capita $26,092
Household Income $63,748
Unemployment 7.7%

Income Breakdown

Pepperwood Income breakdown chart

Employment by Industry

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Local economic factors play a key role in shaping the character and accessibility of a neighborhood, influencing everything from lifestyle to opportunity. Household incomes in Pepperwood average around $63,748, which is lower than average. This affordability contributes to a more accessible lifestyle, making it an appealing choice for first-time homeowners, young families, and those looking to enjoy the benefits of the area without a high price tag.

The employment landscape can reveal important details about the economic conditions of a neighborhood and the opportunities available to its residents. In Pepperwood, the unemployment rate is 8%, which is higher than average. This elevated rate may point to a more competitive job market or transitional economic conditions, shaping the overall character and pace of the community.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Downtown?

Pepperwood is conveniently located just about 3 miles from Downtown Iowa City, making it a quick 10-minute drive or a pleasant bike ride away. Residents can easily access the vibrant downtown area, which features popular spots like the Pedestrian Mall, local restaurants such as Pullman Bar & Diner, and cultural venues like the Englert Theatre.

What are some of the highlights?

Pepperwood offers a tranquil suburban feel with plenty of green spaces, including nearby parks like Hickory Hill Park, which has walking trails and playgrounds. The neighborhood is also close to the Coralville Reservoir for outdoor recreation. Its proximity to the University of Iowa adds cultural and educational opportunities, while local shops and eateries provide everyday conveniences.

Are there major highways or transit lines nearby?

Yes, Pepperwood benefits from easy access to Interstate 80, which runs just north of the neighborhood, facilitating quick travel to other parts of Iowa and beyond. Additionally, the Iowa City Transit system services the area with several bus routes that connect Pepperwood to downtown and the university campus, making commuting convenient for residents without cars.

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