22 Top Iowa Newspapers List [2024 Edition]

By Intelligent Relations Team

June 17, 2023

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Known for its agriculture and midwestern culture, Iowa is a great market for anyone in the food production industry. 

The Hawkeye State is home to about 3 million people, making it one of the smaller states. 

Yet, Iowa is home to a booming agricultural industry. It’s a top producer of corn, most of which is used to produce ethanol. Plus, it’s the top producer of pork. 

Thanks to its agricultural industry, the state is nicknamed “Food Capital of the World.” So, if you’re in the food production or processing industries, Iowa is a top market.

Into politics instead of food? Iowa is home of the Iowa Caucus, one of the first events of the presidential nomination process. The results of the caucus are seen by many as a good indicator of who will win the overall presidential election. 

Regardless of your industry, our list of Iowa newspapers and publications is designed to help you stay up to date on news, trends, and PR opportunities in the state of Iowa. 

We’ve made sure to include local publications from around the state, as well as major, state-wide and tri-state publications. 

Use this list to reach out to your target audience in the Hawkeye State today!

Iowa Newspapers and Publications – Our Curated List

Des Moines Register (@DMRegister) The Des Moines Register is a daily newspaper based in Des Moines, Iowa, and is the largest newspaper in the state. 

It covers a variety of topics in both print and digital formats. It draws an impressive readership with a daily circulation of 27,000 copies and a Sunday circulation of almost 40,000 copies.

Topics covered by Des Moines Register include:

• Local News
• Sports
• Politics
• Entertainment
• Business
• Events

The paper has won 17 Pulitzer Prizes for its investigative reporting and editorial writing, and is widely regarded as one of the most influential Iowa newspapers.

The Gazette (@gazettedotcom) The Gazette is an employee-owned newspaper based in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. For 140 years, it’s been one of the primary Iowa newspapers for people from around the state. 

The Gazette offers several advertising opportunities between its daily printed newspaper and its 24/7 website coverage. 

Topics covered by The Gazette include:

• Local News
• Business
• Education
• Food and Drink
• Events and Activities
• Sports

The Gazette has won multiple awards for its reporting and is a trusted source of news and information for Iowans. 

Are you in the food industry or planning on opening a bar or restaurant in Iowa? Then check out our list of dedicated food writers: 21 Best Food Writers and Publications for 2024

Telegraph Herald (@TelegraphHerald) Telegraph Herald is a daily newspaper serving Dubuque, Iowa, and the surrounding areas. It mainly covers news and events in Iowa, but also offers tri-state coverage for parts of Illinois and Wisconsin.  

In addition to its print and online editions, the Telegraph Herald also offers a variety of digital products and services, including mobile apps and newsletters. 

Topics covered by Telegraph Herald include:

• Local News
• Lifestyle
• Sports
• Events
• Travel 
• Schools 

Founded in 1836, the newspaper has a long history of providing tri-state news. With a focus on quality journalism and community engagement, the Telegraph Herald is one of the most trusted Iowa newspapers for the residents of Dubuque.

Want a list of Wisconsin newspapers? We can help! Check it out: Top Wisconsin Newspapers and Publications Roundup [2024 Edition]

Quad-City Times (@qctimes) Quad-City Times is a daily newspaper serving the Quad Cities area of Iowa and Illinois.  The area includes Davenport and Bettendorf in Iowa, and Rock Island, Moline, and East Moline in Illinois. 

The newspaper was founded in 1855, and has a long history of providing the community with news. Today, it has a circulation of 17,000 copies for its weekday publication and around 19,000 copies for its Sunday edition.

Topics covered by Quad-City Times include:

• Local News
• Sports
• Entertainment
• Lifestyle
• Business
• Crime and Courts 
• Events

Quad-City Times provides a wide variety of multimedia content to supplement its reporting including videos, photography, opinion pieces, and newsletters. 

It’s also active on social media, providing subscribers with breaking news headlines and exclusive content. 

Interested in news, trends, or outreach in Illinois? There’s no better place to start than Chicago! Check it out: 22 Top Chicago Newspapers and Publications List [2024 Edition]

Ottumwa Courier (@OttumwaCourier) The Ottumwa Courier is a daily newspaper serving Ottumwa, Iowa, and the surrounding areas. Founded in 1848, it’s considered one of the top Iowa newspapers for the local community. 

The Ottumwa Courier covers local, national, and international news. Plus, the newspaper has a strong online presence with active social channels and a website featuring articles, photos, and video content.

Topics covered by Ottumwa Courier include:

• Events
• Celebrations
• Sports
• Business
• Politics
• Government 
• Schools
• Lifestyle
• Entertainment

The paper is published three days a week on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. And it has an estimated circulation of about 4,400 copies. 

The Courier (@wcfcourier)The Courier is one of our local, daily Iowa newspapers serving Waterloo, Cedar Falls, and the surrounding area of northeast Iowa. 

The Courier has a weekday circulation of about 14,000 copies and a Sunday circulation of about 17,000 copies.

Topics covered by The Courier include:

• Local News
• Crime and Courts
• Lifestyle
• Entertainment
• Sports
• Events

The newspaper was founded in 1859. It publishes in print and digital formats. The Courier’s website features a range of resources for readers, including a marketplace, shopping guides, and local celebration stories. 

Newton Daily News (@NewtonDNews) Newton Daily News is a daily newspaper serving Newton, Iowa, and the surrounding areas. 

The newspaper provides coverage of local news, sports, business, and entertainment, as well as national and international news. It also publishes special sections that highlight different aspects of the Newton community. 

Topics covered by Newton Daily News include:

• Sports
• Schools
• Local Politics
• Business
• Lifestyle
• Entertainment
• Events

The Newton Daily News has reported on the area for over 166 years. 

Starting a business in Iowa? Perhaps you want to stay up on the latest business trends? Then check out our list: 40 Top Business Publications for PR in 2024

The Daily Iowan (@TheDailyIowan) The Daily Iowan is the independent, student-run newspaper for the University of Iowa, which is located in Iowa City. 

The paper was founded in 1868, and has been publishing without interruption, making it one of the oldest student newspapers in the country. The Daily Iowan covers topics ranging from campus news to national headlines.

Topics covered by The Daily Iowan include:

• Politics
• Sports
• Arts
• Events
• Culture 
• Lifestyle
• History 

The Daily Iowan is published both in print and digital formats. It’s won numerous awards for its reporting and design over the years. It has an estimated circulation of about 6,500 copies and is distributed across the campus and Iowa City. 

Iowa City Press-Citizen (@presscitize) The Iowa City Press-Citizen is a daily newspaper based in Iowa City, Iowa. 

The paper was founded in 1920. It’s one of the Iowa newspapers on our list that is a USA Today affiliated newspaper. Its coverage includes local Iowa City news, University of Iowa events, and national and international news stories. 

It also has a special section on its website called GO Iowa City that has a calendar of events happening throughout the city.

Topics covered by Iowa City Press-Citizen include:

• Local News
• Sports
• Events
• Business
• Education
• Politics

The Iowa City Press-Citizen has won several awards for its journalism and is one of the most trusted Iowa newspapers for Iowa City residents. 

Daily Nonpareil (@nonpareilonline) The Daily Nonpareil is a newspaper based in Council Bluffs, Iowa. It was founded in 1857, and its coverage spans 10 southwest Iowa counties. 

Topics covered by Daily Nonpareil include:

• Local News
• Business
• Politics
• Education
• Schools 
• Health
• Entertainment
• Events

The Daily Nonpareil is available in both print and digital formats, making it accessible to readers wherever they are. The daily edition has a print circulation of roughly 2,600 copies.

Iowa State Daily (@iowastatedaily) Iowa State Daily is a student-run newspaper that serves the Iowa State University community. 

It covers a wide variety of topics relevant to the campus community, but is known for its in-depth coverage of college sports.

Topics covered by Iowa State Daily include:

• Sports
• Lifestyle
• Campus Life
• Culture
• Events
• Education
• Health and Wellness

The Iowa State Daily is a valuable source of information and perspective on life at Iowa State University for students, families, and staff. It has been reporting on the campus community since 1890.

The newspaper is published Monday through Friday during the academic year in both print and digital formats. 

Looking for a list of sports journalists to follow for news and trends? We’ve got you covered! Check it out: 33 Best Sports Journalists List [2024 Edition]

Globe Gazette (@globegazette) The Globe Gazette is a daily newspaper serving northern Iowa and southern Minnesota. 

Based in Mason City, Iowa, the newspaper covers local news, sports, and community information. Globe Gazette is one of our Iowa newspapers with coverage that spans nine counties and includes 16 different school districts. 

Topics covered by Globe Gazette include:

• Local News
• Sports
• Entertainment
• Lifestyle
• Politics
• Events

In addition to its print publication, Globe Gazette has a robust online presence, offering breaking news updates, multimedia content, and digital subscriptions. Its print newspaper has a daily circulation of about 7,600 copies.

The Globe Gazette prides itself on its commitment to serving the local community. The paper is made by a team of experienced journalists and editors dedicated to providing timely and accurate coverage of events and issues that matter to readers. 

Starting a business in Minnesota? Want a list of Minnesota newspapers for state news and outreach opportunities? We’ve got it: 25 Top Minnesota Newspapers List [2024 Edition]

Clinton Herald (@ClintonHerald) The Clinton Herald is a daily newspaper serving Clinton, Iowa. The paper is a valuable source of information for both residents and visitors. 

It publishes a visitors guide, digital directories for local businesses, and several special edition magazines that highlight life in Clinton.

Topics covered by Clinton Herald include:

• Local Events
• Food and Drink 
• Lifestyle 
• Sports
• Local News
• Local Politics

With a history dating back to the 1850s and a community-centered approach, the Clinton Herald is one of the most trusted local Iowa newspapers by Clinton area residents. 

Ames Tribune  (@AmesTribNews) Ames Tribune is a daily newspaper serving the Ames, Iowa, area. The paper is published Tuesday through Sunday and has a print circulation of about 3,000 copies.

The Ames Tribune has a long history of providing the Ames community with high-quality journalism. It’s widely respected for its in-depth coverage of local issues. Plus, it’s another of our Iowa newspapers that’s a USA Today affiliate. 

Topics covered by Ames Tribune include:

• Local News
• Sports
• Entertainment
• Business
• Politics
• Education
• Events

The Ames Tribune maintains an active online presence, providing readers with updated news and information. It also provides a range of multimedia, including videos and photography, as well as plenty of advertising opportunities.

Clear Lake Mirror-Reporter (@CLReporter) Clear Lake Mirror-Reporter is a local newspaper in Clear Lake, Iowa, that provides news, sports, and community updates for city residents.

The Clear Lake Mirror-Reporter has a reputation for providing accurate and timely news. It comes in both print and digital formats, and offers a range of advertising opportunities through both mediums. 

Topics covered by Clear Lake Mirror-Reporter include:

• The Outdoors
• Sports
• Lifestyle
• Real Estate
• Business
• Local Events

The Clear Lake Mirror-Reporter is one of the go-to Iowa newspapers for the Clear Lake community, and plays a vital role in keeping residents informed and engaged. The newspaper was established in 1869.

Creston News Advertiser (@CrestonNews) Creston News Advertiser is a local newspaper that serves the Creston, Iowa, area. 

It was founded in 1928. It has a community-centered approach, providing the Creston residents with vital resources, including a calendar of events, real estate listings, and a local business directory. 

Topics covered by Clear Lake Mirror-Reporter include:

• Local News
• Sports
• Education
• Local Government
• Real Estate
• Business
• Schools
• Events

On its website, readers can find special publications that range in topic from reviews of local businesses and events to in-depth analysis of professional football. 

Times Citizen (@TimesCitizen) Times Citizen is a newspaper that provides up-to-date and comprehensive coverage of Iowa Falls, Iowa. 

It covers both local news and nationally trending headlines. The newspaper is first and foremost a digital publication. 

Topics covered by Times Citizen include:

• Sports
• Events
• Schools
• Entertainment
• Business
• Local Government

Times Citizen has become a vital source of news and information for the Iowa Falls area. It also publishes a daily newsletter, as well as a calendar of events for residents and visitors. 

Indianola Independent Advocate (@IndianolaIA) The Indianola Independent Advocate is a newspaper based in Indianola, Iowa, that covers a wide range of topics from local news to national headlines. 

Founded in 1882, it’s been serving the community for over 100 years. It publishes content on its website daily, and also has a newsletter that is sent out to its dedicated subscriber base. 

Topics covered by Indianola Independent Advocate include:

• Sports
• Business
• Events
• Politics
• Schools
• Education

This is one of our Iowa newspapers that serves as a vital source of information for the residents of Indianola, which has a population of about 15,700 people. On its website, readers can find a business directory, opinion pieces, and a range of other resources.

The Storm Lake Times (@SLTimes) The Storm Lake Times is a newspaper based in Storm Lake, Iowa, that covers news in Buena Vista County.

Founded in 1990, the newspaper has won numerous awards for its investigative reporting and coverage of local issues. The newspaper has an estimated circulation of around 3,000 copies and covers a range of topics.

Topics covered by The Storm Lake Times include:

• Local News
• Sports
• Lifestyle
• Arts and Entertainment 
• Agriculture
• Events
• Business

The Storm Lake Times is known for its commitment to covering stories that may not receive attention from larger Iowa newspapers and for its coverage of the Latino community in Storm Lake, which makes up a significant portion of the town’s population.

The Hawk Eye (@TheHawkEye) The Hawk Eye  is a popular online news outlet that covers news and events in Burlington, Iowa, and the surrounding areas. 

The newspaper updates its digital newspaper daily and provides a range of other digital resources. It runs a digital marketplace and has a section for classified ads, providing ample opportunities for advertising services. 

Topics covered by The Hawk Eye include:

• Local News
• Sports
• Arts
• Business
• Schools
• Events

The paper was founded in 1837 and hails as the oldest newspaper in the state of Iowa. Today, it has an estimated circulation of roughly 5,600 copies. 

Bloomfield Democrat (@bdemo1) Bloomfield Democrat is a local newspaper based in Bloomfield, Iowa. In addition to its print publication, the Bloomfield Democrat also maintains an active online presence.

The newspaper is known for its in-depth reporting and journalistic integrity, which has earned it a loyal following. As another of our community Iowa newspapers, it covers a wide range of local news stories and events that are relevant to its readership. 

Topics covered by Bloomfield Democrat include:

• Local News
• Events
• Sports
• Weather
• Business
• Schools

Established in 1858, it has a long and rich history of providing quality news coverage to the people of Bloomfield and the surrounding areas.

Midwest Living (@MidwestLiving) Midwest Living is a popular lifestyle magazine and media brand that focuses on showcasing the unique lifestyle and culture of the Midwest region of the United States. 

The award-winning magazine offers a diverse range of content, including articles, photographs, and videos, all of which aim to promote the natural beauty, food, travel, and community of the region. 

It has a print readership of over 800,000 and its website draws over 267,000 unique visitors.

Topics covered by Midwest Living include:

• Travel
• Food
• Home
• Garden
• Holidays
• Events

With a broad readership, Midwest Living has become a go-to source for people who want to learn more about the Midwest and its unique attractions. The brand’s online activity is just as impressive, with a vibrant social media presence and an engaging website that offers articles, recipes, and travel guides.

In the travel industry? Looking for a way to follow trends or do better outreach? Check out our list of the top travel journalists for 2024: List of Top Travel Journalists in the Industry

Wrapping Up

From community newspapers to nationally-recognized news outlets, Iowa publications can provide a wide variety of PR opportunities. 

Regardless of your industry, our list of Iowa newspapers has something for everyone. 

So, if you could benefit from following Iowa news and trends or from state-wide exposure, use our list to find a match today! 

For access to more publications tailored to your specific business activity, book a free consultation with us. You’ll get AI-assisted, expert insight into how to improve your PR efforts!