The independent newspaper of the University of Iowa community since 1868

The Daily Iowan

The independent newspaper of the University of Iowa community since 1868

The Daily Iowan

The independent newspaper of the University of Iowa community since 1868

The Daily Iowan

Iowa City ranks in best work-life balance

Iowa City has made yet another list, this time for cities with best work-life balance. It placed 13th out of 20 U.S. cities in a study conducted by Nerd Wallet, a finance blog.

Just last month, Iowa City was named among the smartest cities in the U.S.

The study factored in median work hours per week, commuting time, and median earnings for full-time workers. Using U.S. Census data, the site reported that Iowa City citizens work an average of 36.3 hours per week and spend an average 18.2 hours commuting. As for salaries, the average was $44,442 for men and $39,047 for women.

“We are thrilled but not surprised that Iowa City made a strong showing in this poll,” said Rachel Schunk of the Iowa City Area Chamber of Commerce. “The unemployment level in our area is enviably low, and we have numerous stable employers who both compensate their employees well and place a high value on family and community involvement.”

Ames also topped the list at No. 2, boasting big employers such as Iowa State University and the Iowa Department of Transportation headquarters. Other college towns such as Urbana, Ill., Ann Arbor, Mich., and Boulder, Colo. made the list as well.

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