Iowa
Real talk: You are probably underestimating Iowa.
Sure, you know about the state’s cornfields and the baseball diamonds Kevin Costner builds in them, but Iowa is so much more than sprawling farms and iconic baseball movies. This state deserves a second look — and a chance to surprise you.
Iowa is packed with job opportunities in cutting-edge industries like health care, finance and education technology. Entrepreneurs and businesses flock here for the low tax rates, strong local talent pool, and collaborative and creative culture. The state’s educational institutions draw students and faculty from around the world, including an impressive roster of legendary writers who study and teach at the Iowa Writers’ Workshop at the University of Iowa.
Farm-to-table is a way of life here, as foodies and restaurateurs get to enjoy fresh produce and meat grown on local farms. And working up an appetite is easy — take your pick from Iowa’s countless parks, hiking trails or world-renowned biking routes to work up a sweat and take in the scenery.
Is this heaven? It might be. But it’s definitely Iowa.
Iowa has Connected Communities with high-speed fiber internet service providers. Read More
This is Iowa
This digital edition of the This is Iowa is sponsored by Iowa South.
Quick Facts About Iowa
- Median Household Income
- $73,514
- Average Property Tax
- $2,795
- State Population
- 3,222,974
- Sales Tax Rate
- 6 %
- State Income Tax
- 0.33%%
- Median Monthly Rent
- $741
Iowa Businesses & Brands to Know
Places We Love In Iowa
Cities in Iowa on Livability.com
- Adel, IA
- Algona, IA
- Altoona, IA
- Ames, IA
- Anamosa, IA
- Ankeny, IA
- Asbury, IA
- Atlantic, IA
- Bettendorf, IA
- Bloomfield, IA
- Bondurant, IA
- Boone, IA
- Burlington, IA
- Carroll, IA
- Cedar Falls, IA
- Cedar Rapids, IA
- Centerville, IA
- Charles City, IA
- Cherokee, IA
- Clarinda, IA
- Clear Lake, IA
- Clinton, IA
- Clive, IA
- Coralville, IA
- Council Bluffs, IA
- Creston, IA
- Davenport, IA
- Decorah, IA
- Denison, IA
- Des Moines, IA
- DeWitt, IA
- Dubuque, IA
- Eldridge, IA
- Estherville, IA
- Fairfield, IA
- Fort Dodge, IA
- Fort Madison, IA
- Gilbert, IA
- Glenwood, IA
- Grimes, IA
- Grinnell, IA
- Hiawatha, IA
- Huxley, IA
- Independence, IA
- Indianola, IA
- Iowa City, IA
- Iowa Falls, IA
- Johnston, IA
- Keokuk, IA
- Knoxville, IA
- Le Mars, IA
- Manchester, IA
- Maquoketa, IA
- Marion, IA
- Marshalltown, IA
- Mason City, IA
- Mount Pleasant, IA
- Mount Vernon, IA
- Muscatine, IA
- Nevada, IA
- Newton, IA
- North Liberty, IA
- Norwalk, IA
- Oelwein, IA
- Orange City, IA
- Osceola, IA
- Oskaloosa, IA
- Ottumwa, IA
- Pella, IA
- Perry, IA
- Pleasant Hill, IA
- Red Oak, IA
- Sheldon, IA
- Shenandoah, IA
- Sioux Center, IA
- Sioux City, IA
- Spencer, IA
- Spirit Lake, IA
- Storm Lake, IA
- Story City, IA
- Urbandale, IA
- Vinton, IA
- Washington, IA
- Waterloo, IA
- Waukee, IA
- Waverly, IA
- Webster City, IA
- West Des Moines, IA
- Windsor Heights, IA
- Winterset, IA
Iowa Connected Communities
Experiences & Adventures in Iowa
10 Best State Fairs in America
These ten state fairs take the (funnel) cake for the most fun.
Looking for Fun Things to Do in Ames, IA?
From hiking and biking to shopping and savoring the cuisine scene, you'll get your fill of fun and food in the Heart of Iowa.
Where to Pick Pumpkins in Every State
We scoured all 50 states to pinpoint the perfect place to pick your pumpkin this Halloween season. Here's where to find them.
Food Scenes in Iowa
The Official Food of Each State in the U.S
Eat your way through America the beautiful with our guide to the official food of each state.
Feast on Fabulous Farm-to-table Fare in Iowa
A rich, agricultural heritage provides restaurants with fresh, local ingredients. Enjoy!
Hungry? Where to Eat in Cedar Rapids
Sip and savor the flavors of local and international cuisine.
Healthy Places in Iowa
Health Care in Ames Continues to Expand, Improve
An engaged and generous community supports vital health care in Ames and the region.
Future Arrives for Health Care in Marshalltown, IA
Providers invest millions in new ultramodern medical facilities in Marshalltown.
How to Have Fun and Stay Fit in Iowa
Countless recreation activities allow residents to stay active year-round.
Make Your Move to Iowa
Moving to Cedar Rapids, IA? Find Out Which Neighborhood Is Right for You
This city boasts numerous neighborhoods, each with its own set of assets and charming, unique vibes. Discover which community is the perfect fit to call home!
Iowa: Where to Live Now
The Ultimate Guide to Finding Your Best Place to Live
Ready to move but aren’t sure where to go? These questions will help you figure out the best place to live for you.
Best Places To Live in Iowa
From Des Moines to Davenport, Iowa has numerous cities that are affordable and loaded with amenities and outdoor attractions. Check out our list!
4 Reasons to Move to Ames, IA, Right Now
No matter what stage you are in life, you'll find it all in this stunning region nestled in the heart of Iowa.
Education, Careers and Opportunity in Iowa
Find Your Recipe for Success in Ames, IA
Entrepreneurs in Ames and the surrounding communities can thrive, thanks to stellar support and bountiful resources.
Farming in Ames: Rolling Toward the Future
Innovative companies in Ames are creating better ways to yield crops and improve efficiency.
Aspiring Writer? This City in Iowa Could Be Your Muse
This hot spot has the resources and support you need to turn your story ideas into riveting prose.
Iowa: Love Where You Live
Renewal Runs Through Downtown Cedar Rapids
This city center has overcome a devastating flood to become a prime destination chock full of amenities and living options.
All Are Welcome in Cedar Rapids, IA
Cedar Rapids strives to be a diverse, inclusive city where immigrants and refugees thrive.
The Official 2022 State-Specific Gift Guide
This year we're taking 'shop local' to the next level with the best gifts from each state to give your loved ones.
