About Rock Island

Historic, culturally vibrant, and situated right next to the world-famous Mississippi River, Rock Island is one of the Quad Cities along with Moline, East Moline, and the Iowa cities of Davenport and Bettendorf. With the wide variety of housing options available throughout the area, whether you’re looking to move into a historic home, a new downtown condo, a shiny new spot in the heart of the city (lovingly referred to as “The District”) or prefer a quieter homestead away from it all, Rock Island has a property for you.

Rock Island is everybody’s hometown. Nestled between the Rock River and the Mississippi River, residents are welcoming, and visitors feel like they’re home as soon as they get here. The Quad Cities connect residents to a variety of opportunities for both work and play. The city’s small-town feel and connected community make moving here a breeze—locals are happy to share their favorite places to visit and are always willing to lend a helping hand.

When you buy a home here, you can immerse yourself in the natural beauty along the Mississippi River and explore the many outdoor attractions this beautiful area has to offer. Rock Island has so much to see and do, which makes this one of the best places to buy a home.

Rock Island Community Information

The original Rock Island—from which the city gets its name—is the largest island on the Mississippi River. It is now called “Arsenal Island” and it houses the Rock Island Arsenal—the largest government-owned weapons manufacturing arsenal in the U.S. (which also employs over 6,000 people). The city’s population has reached about 40,000 and has a total metropolitan area of almost 400,000.

As one of the first settlements established in the region, and then later, a growing hub for steamboat traffic, bridges, and railroads—Rock Island never stopped its upward trajectory or lost its pioneering spirit. Many families and young professionals call Rock Island home. It’s the perfect place to spread wings and explore all that Quad Cities have to offer.

There are four major districts in Rock Island—The Downtown Rock Island District, College Hilltop, Watch Hill & Hillcrest neighborhoods, and the Broadway Historic District. Visit the downtown area for murals, craft breweries, and a selfie in front of the Blues Brothers statue. College Hilltop has great antique and gift shops and is home to the Augustana College campus and of course, the QC’s Vikings. Watch Hill and the Hillcrest neighborhoods feature elaborate homes and architecture, and the Broadway Historic District is perfect for anyone looking to live in grand homes that feature Victorian architecture.

Schools & Education

The Rock Island-Milan School District, Rockridge School District, Augustana College, and many private schools serve area families. The Rock Island-Milan School District is home to more than 10 public schools, high schools, junior highs, and elementary schools, as well as alternative education centers. Private schools including Jordan Catholic Elementary School and Alleman Catholic High School also serve the region providing a multitude of different educational options for families and young professionals.

Employment Opportunities

Being part of the Quad Cities offers residents many opportunities for work in both Illinois and Iowa. The major private-sector employers in the area provide jobs, careers, and employment opportunities for residents across the QC’s six-county region and span multiple industries which continue to grow consistently and provide the integral foundation that makes the region what it is today. Some of the largest employers in the area include Rock Island Arsenal, Augustana College, Dohrn Transfer, Honeywell Safety Products and many more.

Things to Do in Rock Island

The downtown area is lined with art galleries, a casino, theaters, nightclubs, coffee shops, restaurants, and tons of shopping. Once you’ve gotten a feel for the city, get a feel for the beautiful nature surrounding it! Parks, golf courses, marinas, bike paths, festivals, the Quad City Botanical Center, and historic tours, should be next on your list to check out.

During the summertime, Schwiebert Park at the riverfront for daytime splashing through the fountains and free, family-friendly nighttime concerts are a popular favorite, and the Black Hawk State Historic Site and Broadway Historic District are some of the best places to get a true understanding of the area and its history. And don’t forget to visit the Longview Park Conservatory and Gardens in the spring—the colors are unbelievable!

Head to the Rock Island Public Library for exciting events all year long and the Boetje’s Mustard Factory for some treats. In the fall, head to the Chippiannock Cemetery for a spooky tour before popping over to Bally's Quad Cities Casino & Hotel for some non-stop gaming, luxury amenities, and world-class dining.

Some other signature events include the Ya Maka My Weekend and the annual bi-state St. Patrick’s Day Parade—one of the largest St. Patty’s Day parades of its kind in the country!

If you are ready to start your home buying or selling journey, browse the latest real estate listings in Rock Island, IL. You can also contact us—we are here to help!

Nearest Ruhl & Ruhl Office: Moline, IL
1701 52^nd Avenue
Moline, IL 61265
(563) 441-1776