There’s no doubt that Iowa is full of livable, charming towns and cities with some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet. And, while a lot of people living in more expensive and populated urban areas overlook Iowa as a "fly-over state," I think they’re missing out on the abundance of charm, affordability and just the overall high standard of living available here in Iowa.

While it’s really hard to narrow down, and of course most places in Iowa are awesome to live in, here are 10 of the reasons why Iowa City is the best place to live in America.

1. Schools

Iowa City is home to the University of Iowa, a top ranked public research university, which provides great educational opportunities for students and residents alike. They offer a large array of degree programs, the prestigious Iowa Writer’s Workshop, and there are plenty of continuing education classes and other nontraditional courses available through the university. The public school system is also consistently highly ranked among other public school systems in the country.

2. Medical Care

Home to the University of Iowa teaching hospital and clinics, the residents of Iowa City have access to world class healthcare. Not to mention, the hospital and clinics are a huge employer for the area.

3. Arts & Culture

Iowa City has been designated a UNESCO City of Literature, which isn’t hard to understand, since it’s home to the number one ranked creative writing program in the country. Downtown, there’s an Iowa Avenue Literary walk with bronze panels memorializing 49 writers with ties to Iowa. Iowa City is also home to the Landlocked Film Festival and Hancher Auditorium, and these things are just the tip of the iceberg.

4. Shopping

With its quirky pedestrian mall full of clothing boutiques, book stores, gift shops and more, as well as its close proximity to the Coral Ridge Mall in Coralville, there are plenty of options for shoppers with varying needs and interests. The annual farmer’s market is also full of great produce and local arts and crafts.

5. Attractions

Iowa City has plenty of interesting attractions, like the Devonian Fossil Gorge, the Old Capitol Building, the Museum of Natural History, the University of Iowa Museum of Art and more.

6. Restaurants

Iowa City has some of the best and most diverse dining in the state. From upscale eateries to greasy spoons, Mexican to Japanese, and everything in between, Iowa City has it all. And every year you can get a sampling of the culinary offerings in the area at Taste of Iowa City, where you can literally eat your way through the city.

7. Home of the Hawkeyes

Ok, so Iowa State fans may beg to differ, but it’s a huge plus that Iowa City is home to the beloved Iowa Hawkeyes. A common sight is throngs of people throughout the city dressed up in black and gold in solidarity with the team, especially on game days.

8. Walkability/Public Transportation

Not only does the layout of the downtown area make it incredibly easy to walk places, there is a comprehensive city bus system that goes throughout the city, as well as Cambus, a university bus system that is completely free to the public, whether you’re a student or not. The city is also bike friendly, with plenty of bike lanes and bicycle highways available for those who prefer to get around on two wheels.

9. History

Iowa City used to be the capitol of Iowa. The Old Capitol Building is a National Historic Landmark, and you can take a tour of the beautiful building to learn all kinds of things about the history of Iowa.

10. Jobs

The university is a huge employer for Iowa City, and there are a growing number of entrepreneurial enterprises drawn to Iowa City for its livability and rich cultural opportunities. Plus, Iowa City has a low unemployment rate compared to most of the country.

Do you agree? What are your favorite places to live in Iowa? Of course, there are plenty of other places that are awesome to live. Here Are 10 Of The Most Charming Small Towns In Iowa.