1-Iodo-3-methoxypropane is primarily used in organic synthesis as an alkylating agent. It is particularly useful in the preparation of ethers and other organic compounds through nucleophilic substitution reactions. The compound is often employed in the synthesis of complex molecules in pharmaceutical research, where it serves as a building block for drug intermediates. Additionally, it finds application in the development of specialty chemicals and materials, including polymers and surfactants, due to its reactivity and ability to introduce methoxyalkyl groups into target molecules. Its role in cross-coupling reactions also makes it valuable in the field of organometallic chemistry.