Radon Risk in Iowa

Iowa has a statewide average radon level of 7.99 pCi/L, above the EPA's action level of 4 pCi/L. That puts Iowa among the higher-risk states in the country for indoor radon. If you live here, testing your home is genuinely important.

Every county in Iowa is classified as EPA Zone 1, the highest risk category. That's a strong signal that the state's geology and housing stock create widespread radon risk. Radon still varies house by house, but the baseline risk here is high enough that testing every home in Iowa is a reasonable recommendation.

Within Iowa, the spread is notable. Sioux County has the highest measured average in the state at 13.6 pCi/L. Decatur County sits at the other end with 3.2 pCi/L. 94 counties have a measured average above 4 pCi/L. Remember: these are averages. Individual homes can test significantly higher or lower than their county average depending on construction, foundation type, and ventilation.

Tipper's recommendation for Iowa residents: if you haven't tested your home, start there. A short-term test kit costs around $15 and gives you a result in 48 hours. If your home tests at or above 4 pCi/L, a professional mitigation system (typically $800–$2,000 depending on your foundation and home size) will reliably bring levels down.