Iowa

In addition to its natural heritage as the agricultural belt of the United States, Iowa is one of the safest, most progressive and community-minded places to settle. Fresher produce, shorter commute times and a lower cost of living are just a few great reasons to relocate to Iowa.

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Find out more about the advantages of living in Iowa at the Official Web site of the Iowa Department of Economic Development.

 

According to the Iowa Department of Economic Development:

• Iowa is ranked the nation's 2nd-most livable state based on 43 factors ranging from median household income to crime rate and from sunny days to infant mortality rate.
  CQ Press, 2009

• Iowa is named the 8th-best state to raise a child.
  Annie E. Casey Foundation, 2008

• Iowa ranks 9th in the nation for number of state parks, recreational areas and natural areas.
  CQ Press, 2009

• Nine metros in Iowa are ranked among the best places in America to start a business or career.
  Forbes, 2008

• Iowa ranks 8th in safest neighborhoods in the U.S.
  CQ Press, 2008

• Iowa has the 5th-highest public high school graduation rate in the U.S.
  CQ Press, 2009

• Iowans enjoy the 6th-shortest average commute time (18.3 minutes) among the 50 states
  US Census Bureau, 2007

• Iowans enjoy the 8th-lowest housing costs
  US Census Bureau, 2007

• Iowans pay the lowest combined average auto insurance premiums of any state in the nations
  National Association of Insurance Commissioners, 2006

• Iowa's capital city, Des Moines, was listed as one of the best cities to live, work, and play.
  Kiplinger 2008

• Iowa has over 1400 miles of trails for hiking and biking within its state parks and recreational areas.
  Iowa Department of Transportation