Moline, IL, United States
📊 Scores
John Deere's headquarters and massive manufacturing footprint dominate Moline's economy, though the region has genuinely diversified. UnityPoint Health and Cargill provide stable employment in healthcare and food processing. Manufacturing jobs still pay decently ($50k–$75k for skilled trades), but white-collar remote work is increasingly common among expats here. The job market is steady rather than booming—you're not moving here for career acceleration, but stable income and low cost of living are real.
Rent runs $1,050/month for a one-bedroom downtown, often dropping to $750–$850 in quieter neighborhoods. Car dependency is absolute; public transit is minimal. Healthcare access is solid through UnityPoint clinics and hospitals. Bureaucracy is standard American—no visa headaches if you're a citizen. The real friction: winters hit hard (sub-zero common), and the expat infrastructure is thin compared to coastal cities. You'll need to build your own social circle.
Summers are genuinely pleasant; winters are brutal and long. Food scene is Midwestern casual—good steakhouses, breweries, chain restaurants. The Mississippi riverfront offers hiking, kayaking, and parks. Figge Art Museum and Adler Theatre provide cultural anchors. The expat community is small but tight, mostly remote workers and retirees. Moline suits people seeking affordability, stability, and genuine Midwest character who don't mind driving everywhere and can handle six months of cold.
🏚️ Cost of Living
💰 Budgets and Costs
Grocery Basket
Eating Out
Utilities & Lifestyle
Housing
💰 Real Spend Reports
🛡️ Safety & Crime
(Higher is safer)
(Lower is safer)
Moline is a quiet, small Midwestern city with a genuine small-town feel and solid safety reputation. Daytime walking is unremarkable and safe; nighttime strolls are generally fine in residential and downtown areas, though like most small cities, late-night solo ventures warrant basic caution. The Safety Index of 73 reflects a community where most residents feel secure in their daily routines.
Property crime (vehicle theft, burglary) slightly outpaces violent crime here, typical for the region. Petty theft and package theft occur but aren't epidemic. Avoid isolated areas after dark and secure vehicles—standard precautions. Solo female travelers face no unusual risks; the city is conservative and family-oriented. Downtown and residential neighborhoods are well-maintained and low-threat.
Moline sits in stable, low-corruption Illinois with reliable police and functioning institutions. No geopolitical risks or protest activity typical of larger metros. This is an ideal relocation choice for Americans seeking genuine small-town safety without sacrificing basic services. It's genuinely safe—not just statistically, but in lived experience.
🏥 Healthcare
🌤️ Climate
Best Months
Climate Notes
Moline experiences a humid continental climate with hot, muggy summers (June-August) and cold, snowy winters (December-February), with mild spring and fall transitions.
💻 Digital Nomad
Community Notes
| Name | Price/mo | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| The Vault Coworking | $250 | Located in downtown Moline, The Vault offers a modern and professional workspace with various membership options. It's a good option for those seeking a more community-focused environment with local businesses. |
| Regus - Moline - 1603 5th Avenue | $200 | A standard Regus location in downtown Moline, offering private offices and coworking spaces. It provides a reliable and professional environment with flexible terms, ideal for those who prefer a more corporate setting. |
🧳 Expat Life
Expat Life Notes
Industrial hub on the Mississippi. Safe and family-oriented.
Pros
- ✓ Very affordable housing
- ✓ Strong community
- ✓ Safe suburbs
Cons
- ✗ Industrial look
- ✗ Cold winters
- ✗ Slow economy
Could living/working in Moline, IL cut years off your work life?
With a 1-bedroom in the center at $420/mo, your FIRE number here might be much lower than you think.