Davenport
cityDavenport, 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
- Classification
- City
- Country
- United States
- County
- Scott
- 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
- 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.
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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






