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Davenport

city

Davenport, Iowa, nestled in Scott County along the Mississippi River, is the third-most populous city in Iowa, with an estimated population of 100,938 in 2024. As the county seat and the largest of the Quad Cities, Davenport blends its rich history with modern urban living. The city's location on the state's eastern border places it approximately 170 miles west of Chicago and 170 miles east of Des Moines, making it a significant hub between major Midwestern centers. Davenport serves as the economic engine of the Quad Cities, hosting several Fortune 500 companies and a diverse range of industries. Key sectors include manufacturing, healthcare, retail, and education. Major employers contribute to the city's economic stability, while the local workforce benefits from the area's strong Midwestern work ethic. Davenport's strategic position has fostered its growth as a commercial and transportation center, supported by river and rail infrastructure. Davenport distinguishes itself through its historical significance and cultural attractions. Founded in 1836 and named after Colonel George Davenport, the city boasts a rich heritage evident in its historic architecture and landmarks. The city offers a vibrant arts scene, recreational opportunities, and community events, enhancing its quality of life. Despite challenges like seasonal flooding, Davenport remains a livable city with ongoing revitalization efforts focused on its downtown and riverfront.

Davenport, Iowa

Overview
Classification
City
Country
United States
County
Scott
Geography
Region
Quad Cities
Total Area
65.92 sq mi
Land Area
63.8 sq mi
Water Area
2.12 sq mi
Latitude
41.543056
Longitude
-90.590836
Climate
Davenport has a humid continental climate, with hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. The average temperature in the summer is around 76°F (24°C), and the average in the winter is around 23°F (-5°C).
Notable Features
Mississippi River
Neighboring Areas
Bettendorf · Rock Island · Moline · East Moline · Eldridge · Buffalo
Demographics
Population (2020)
101,724
Est. Population (2024)
100,938
Median Age
37.5
Median Income
$66,200
Poverty Rate
15.2%
Family Households
55.7%
Owner-Occupied
62.9%
Racial & Ethnic Composition
The racial makeup of Davenport is 71.2% White, 11% Black or African American, and 9% Hispanic.
Governance
Government Type
Mayor-Council
Governing Body
City Council
Body Size
10 members
School District
Davenport Community School District
Municipal Services
Police · Fire · Public Works · Parks & Recreation
Economy
Unemployment Rate
4.4%
Economic Profile
Diverse · Commercial · Industrial
Employment Sectors
Manufacturing · Health Care & Social Assistance · Retail Trade
Major Employers
Kraft Heinz · Sterilite Corporation · Nestle Purina · Sears Manufacturing · John Deere
Education
Students
14,000
Teachers
2,000
School Districts
Davenport Community School District
Colleges & Universities
St. Ambrose University · Palmer College of Chiropractic · Eastern Iowa Community College District
Infrastructure
Transportation
Interstates 80, 74, and 280 · U.S. Highways · Public Transit (CitiBus) · Rail Service
Utilities
Municipal Water · Municipal Power · Fiber/Broadband
Major Facilities
Hospitals · Airport · Convention Center
Recreation
Outdoor Access
Yes
Major Recreation Areas
Vander Veer Botanical Park · Credit Island Park · Duck Creek Park · Sunderbruch Park
Parks & Trails
50+ Parks and Facilities · 20+ miles of Recreational Paths
History
Founded
1836
Incorporated
1839
Named After
Colonel George Davenport
Historical Significance
Davenport played a key role in westward expansion and regional commerce, and is known for its contributions to education and healthcare.
Key Events
Founded by Antoine Le Claire · Established as county seat of Scott County in 1840 · Iowa's first military headquarters during the Civil War · First railroad bridge across the Mississippi River in 1856 · Palmer College of Chiropractic founded in 1897