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Your next big move

Your next big move

Iowa, debunked: Busting the biggest myths you’ve heard about the state.

What do you think of when we say Iowa? Cornfields and hogs?

It’s okay—they get that a lot. But we’re here (with some help from This Is Iowa) to break some news: Iowa is having a major glow-up, and they want young professionals like you to join in on the fun.

So if you’re looking to level up your career and lifestyle without a high price tag, this Midwestern underdog might be just the place for you. Iowa’s got thriving industries, a low cost of living, and actual work-life life-work balance—so you can enjoy all the fun things to do.

Let’s set the record straight and bust some of the biggest myths you’ve heard about Iowa.

What do you think of when we say Iowa? Cornfields and hogs?

It’s okay—they get that a lot. But we’re here (with some help from This Is Iowa) to break some news: Iowa is having a major glow-up, and they want young professionals like you to join in on the fun.

So if you’re looking to level up your career and lifestyle without a high price tag, this Midwestern underdog might be just the place for you. Iowa’s got thriving industries, a low cost of living, and actual work-life life-work balance—so you can enjoy all the fun things to do.

Let’s set the record straight and bust some of the biggest myths you’ve heard about Iowa.

MYTH #1

MYTH BUSTED!

Iowa’s not a place where young professionals’ lives and careers can flourish.

Iowa isn’t just unbelievably affordable. It’s also ripe with life-changing opportunities.

Simply put, when you move there, you’ll give your life a promotion that goes far beyond the state’s amazing career prospects.

MYTH #1

MYTH BUSTED!

Iowa’s not a place where young professionals’ lives and careers can flourish.

Iowa isn’t just unbelievably affordable. It’s also ripe with life-changing opportunities.

Simply put, when you move there, you’ll give your life a promotion that goes far beyond the state’s amazing career prospects.

MYTH #1

MYTH BUSTED!

Iowa’s not a place where young professionals’ lives and careers can flourish.

Iowa isn’t just unbelievably affordable. It’s also ripe with life-changing opportunities.

Simply put, when you move there, you’ll give your life a promotion that goes far beyond the state’s amazing career prospects.

That’s right—a move to Iowa could potentially change your life. Iowa was actually ranked #2 in opportunity by U.S. News & World Report, thanks to its booming industries, cutting-edge careers, and life-work balance. Simply put, Iowa’s got the keys to help you unlock incredible opportunities.

MYTH #2

MYTH BUSTED!

There aren’t many job opportunities in Iowa. The only careers you’ll find there are in farming and agriculture.

Iowa’s got more career opportunities than cornfields.

(Well, almost.) Whether you’re looking for a career in finance, insurance, bioscience, advanced manufacturing, tech, or more, your career will thrive there. And so will you.

MYTH #2

MYTH BUSTED!

There aren’t many job opportunities in Iowa. The only careers you’ll find there are in farming and agriculture.

Iowa’s got more career opportunities than cornfields.

(Well, almost.) Whether you’re looking for a career in finance, insurance, bioscience, advanced manufacturing, tech, or more, your career will thrive there. And so will you.

MYTH #2

MYTH BUSTED!

There aren’t many job opportunities in Iowa. The only careers you’ll find there are in farming and agriculture.

Iowa’s got more career opportunities than cornfields.

(Well, almost.) Whether you’re looking for a career in finance, insurance, bioscience, advanced manufacturing, tech, or more, your career will thrive there. And so will you.

In Iowa, the grind hits different in the best way possible. It’s not about climbing a corporate ladder just because you can. It’s about building the career and the life you want. With booming industries (bioscience and fintech, we’re lookin’ at you) and supportive employers, you’ll find real opportunities to grow, lead, and make money moves. Oh, and you’ll have time after work to pursue what matters to you in life, too.

MYTH #3

MYTH BUSTED!

Thinking of starting your own business? You’ll have a hard time pursuing that dream in Iowa.

Iowa’s home to an entrepreneurial ecosystem fueled by collaboration and meaningful connections.

Coupled with their suite of small-business resources, entrepreneurs have everything needed to innovate and succeed in Iowa.

MYTH #3

MYTH BUSTED!

Thinking of starting your own business? You’ll have a hard time pursuing that dream in Iowa.

Iowa’s home to an entrepreneurial ecosystem fueled by collaboration and meaningful connections.

Coupled with their suite of small-business resources, entrepreneurs have everything needed to innovate and succeed in Iowa.

MYTH #3

MYTH BUSTED!

Thinking of starting your own business? You’ll have a hard time pursuing that dream in Iowa.

Iowa’s home to an entrepreneurial ecosystem fueled by collaboration and meaningful connections.

Coupled with their suite of small-business resources, entrepreneurs have everything needed to innovate and succeed in Iowa.

Iowa might not be the first place that pops into your head when you think of the next big thing, but…it should be. It’s got a biz scene that’s absolutely crushing it—probably because of all the access to capital, top-tier talent, accelerators that actually, ya know, accelerate, and mentors who are there every step of the way. Big ideas just grow better in Iowa.

MYTH #4

MYTH BUSTED!

Iowa is so boring. There’s nothing to do.

Quite the contrary! With your newfound extra time and cash, Iowa’s endless adventures are right at your fingertips.

It’s got it all: outdoor expeditions, incredible cuisine, world-renowned arts and entertainment, and all points in between.

MYTH #4

MYTH BUSTED!

Iowa is so boring. There’s nothing to do.

Quite the contrary! With your newfound extra time and cash, Iowa’s endless adventures are right at your fingertips.

It’s got it all: outdoor expeditions, incredible cuisine, world-renowned arts and entertainment, and all points in between.

MYTH #4

MYTH BUSTED!

Iowa is so boring. There’s nothing to do.

Quite the contrary! With your newfound extra time and cash, Iowa’s endless adventures are right at your fingertips.

It’s got it all: outdoor expeditions, incredible cuisine, world-renowned arts and entertainment, and all points in between.

Iowa takes “work hard, play hard” to the next level. The weekend activities cover everything from hiking through scenic bluffs and sipping wine under the stars to rocking out at music festivals and catching the newest indie flicks. It’s got endless trails and tons of golf courses, plus eats and events to get you off your couch. In Iowa, you can play a little harder.

MYTH #5

MYTH BUSTED!

Iowa’s scenery is “blah.” Nothing but flatlands and cornfields as far as the eye can see.

Iowa’s waterways, bluffs, and rolling hills are the stuff of legend.

And with 2,500 miles of trails and 80+ free state parks, you can experience Iowa’s natural beauty up close and personal.

MYTH #5

MYTH BUSTED!

Iowa’s scenery is “blah.” Nothing but flatlands and cornfields as far as the eye can see.

Iowa’s waterways, bluffs, and rolling hills are the stuff of legend.

And with 2,500 miles of trails and 80+ free state parks, you can experience Iowa’s natural beauty up close and personal.

MYTH #5

MYTH BUSTED!

Iowa’s scenery is “blah.” Nothing but flatlands and cornfields as far as the eye can see.

Iowa’s waterways, bluffs, and rolling hills are the stuff of legend.

And with 2,500 miles of trails and 80+ free state parks, you can experience Iowa’s natural beauty up close and personal.

There’s way more than just cornfields in Iowa. This under-the-radar outdoor oasis boasts limestone bluffs, peaceful prairies, and state parks that practically scream “Spend your weekend exploring us!” Whether you’re looking for trails to bike or sunsets to chase, Iowa’s got enough natural beauty and fresh air to fill your entire weekend, every weekend.

Give your life a promotion

Turns out that Iowa’s not all farmland and factories. It’s a place where careers thrive, entrepreneurs can build their dreams, and weekends are packed full of adventure. From booming industries and affordable living to a hot social scene, Iowa checks all the boxes for young professionals looking to upgrade their careers and their lifestyles. Iowa’s ready when you are.

It’s your move now.

Think you know Iowa?

Iowa’s way more than cornfields and cattle. They’ve got booming industries, a low cost of living, and everything needed to build a vibrant lifestyle. Whether you’re chasing big career moves or just looking to elevate the way you live, Iowa’s ready for you.

This paid content is produced in collaboration with Iowa Economic Development Authority
Photography courtesy of Iowa Economic Development Authority
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