Retire to Iowa

Iowa became the 29th state admitted to the Union in 1846. Iowa is in the Midwest region of the U.S. situated between Wisconsin and Illinois to the east and Nebraska and South Dakota to the west.

Des Moines, Iowa skyline

Iowa's largest city and capital is Des Moines. Other large cities include Cedar Rapids and Davenport.

Iowa's topology is primarily rolling hills. The climate is extreme with hot and humid summers and cold winters. Annual precipitation is above average in the southeast and gradually declines to just below average in the northwest.

Leading sectors in Iowa's economy are argriculture or agriculture-affiliated industries such as ethonal production, food processing and manufacturing. Iowa is ranked as a low tax state.

Retirement Cities

Iowa City, home to the University of Iowa, is included in our survey of best places to retire. Get a video tour of Iowa City at Iowa videos.

Iowa City, IA

Ranks high in: Population Growth, Population Age, Natural Hazard Risk
Population: 74,398
City Type: Lakes & Rivers, College Town
Climate Type: Cool & Wet
Local Resources:
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