Some might describe it as ‘urban fringe.’ Nearly 7,000 residents call it home. The Mount Vernon-Lisbon area is known for its rolling hills, beautiful historic homes, and unique shopping districts. Many professionals are drawn to the area for its economic health, educational institutions, and cultural advantages. Located in the technology corridor with easy access to Iowa City, Cedar Rapids, and Marion, it’s no wonder residents enjoy big-city living in a small-town setting.
As you enter and exit Mount Vernon, you’ll see the rendition of Grant Wood’s American Gothic on the side of a barn. Wander through the uptown business district and you’ll discover a wine bar, a coffee house, antiques, jewelry, shops, and clothing stores. If you wander far enough, you’ll discover Cornell College, the first college west of the Mississippi to grant women the same rights and privileges as men (and later, the first to award a degree to a woman).
Throughout the year, chocolate, sidewalk chalk, art, and chili have their own festivals. Outdoor enthusiasts will also enjoy the area’s proximity to Palisades-Kepler State Park, just a five-mile drive from Mount Vernon, where they can go to hike, camp, canoe and kayak, and explore nature.
In the neighboring town of Lisbon, you’ll discover a town history center and an escape room. Nearby, the historic Sutliff Bridge, built in 1897 and 1898, overlooks the Cedar River and attracts locals and visitors across Iowa.

Best Places to Live in Iowa – Mount Vernon (Niche)
Bee City USA cities
Cornell College 1 of 2 U.S. college campuses listed on the National Register of Historic Places

Mount Vernon Community School District/Lisbon Community School District
Niche Public Schools Rating
Niche Good for Families Rating
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2 beds, 1.5 bath
SqFt: 1,314
317 10th Ave SW
Mt Vernon, Iowa 52314
4 beds, 2 bath
SqFt: 1,612
236 Walnut
Lisbon, Iowa 52253
2 beds, 3.5 bath
SqFt: 2,897
507 Washington Unit B
Mt Vernon, Iowa 52314
2 beds, 3.5 bath
SqFt: 2,897
507 Washington Ct Unit B
Mt Vernon, Iowa 52314
4 beds, 3 bath
SqFt: 2,836
319 13th Ave SW
Mt Vernon, Iowa 52314
3 beds, 3 bath
SqFt: 2,315
419 15th Ave SW
Mt Vernon, Iowa 52314
250 Holiday Rd
Coralville, IA 52241