Iowa’s Top County for Families Might Surprise You

When it comes to raising a family, I think most of us agree we want what's best for our kids above all.

Their safety, health, education, and, of course, quality of life. And, as parents, we want that last one, too, obviously.

While it can be hard to check all the life "want" boxes, it's nice to have as many as possible checked off.

So, when thinking about what's best for our family, what county in Iowa is the best to live in?

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Like all lists and studies, it's really very subjective. We have 99 counties, and this study ranked the top 30. I don't live in one of the 30 listed, and I'm still happy and my infant son is... well, an infant still, but has great healthcare.

READ MORE: These Are The Best Public High Schools in Iowa

With that in mind, let's see what the study says!

Iowa's Top Counties to Raise a Family: The Metrics

The folks at Niche used data points to determine each state's best counties to raise a family.

The data used was:

• Public Schools Grade (20%)

• Crime & Safety Grade (12.5%)

• Higher Education Rate (12.5%)

• Cost of Living Grade (10%)

• Housing Grade (10%)

• Family Amenities (7.5%)

• Outdoor Activities (7.5%)

• Percent of Households with Children (7.5%)

• Composite Overall Score (5%)

• Diversity Grade (5%)

• Residents Under 18 (2.5%)

Let's see if your county made the list!

The Top 30 Counties in Iowa to Raise a Family

Using the above-listed metrics, the folks at Stacker put together a gallery list of the top 30 counties in Iowa to raise a family.

READ MORE: How Much Do You REALLY Know About Our 99 Counties?

Eastern Iowa was well represented with Dubuque, Linn, and Johnson counties all making the list... but none at number one.

Let us know if you agree or feel like they missed the mark.