Monticello, IA

Monticello is an inviting eastern Iowa community of about 4,000 residents, situated along the Maquoketa River. Sitting right along U.S. 151, the town offers a quiet, relaxed pace while keeping you an easy 35-minute drive from both Cedar Rapids and Dubuque. You get a comfortable mix of a historic downtown full of local shops, paired with convenient retail and dining options near the highway.

ATTRJERRYE AND ROY KLOTZ MD / CC BY-SA 3.0

For newcomers, the town is easy to settle into thanks to solid local schools, walkable neighborhoods, and plenty of outdoor recreation. The river provides great spots for kayaking and fishing, while local parks and trails give you plenty of space to enjoy the outdoors. The community also hosts the Great Jones County Fair each summer, bringing major concerts and neighbors together. If you want a grounded Midwest town with an easy commute to regional job centers, Monticello is well worth a look.