Living in Iowa: What It’s Really Like (From Someone Who’s Been Here 30 Years)

What is Living in Iowa Really Like?

If you’re considering a move to Iowa, you’ve probably heard all the usual stereotypes: it’s all cornfields, small towns, and farm animals. And while there’s some truth to that, there’s a lot more to Iowa than meets the eye.

As someone who’s spent 30+ years living here (minus a brief stint in Illinois—no hard feelings), I’ve experienced everything from small-town life to mid-sized city living. So let’s bust some myths and explore what it’s really like to live in Iowa.

🌽 No, It’s Not Just Cornfields

Yes, we have corn. No, we’re not Idaho (that’s potatoes, thank you very much). While Iowa is dotted with small towns, 63% of the population lives in cities like:

• Des Moines

• Cedar Rapids

• Davenport (where I live!)

So if you’re worried that moving to Iowa means sacrificing city life—you’re in luck. Iowa cities have great amenities, job opportunities, and low traffic congestion (more on that below).

🐓 Homesteading Isn’t as Easy as You Think

If your dream is to move to Iowa, buy some land, and raise chickens—you’ll want to check city ordinances first.

Not all towns allow backyard chickens. Even some small towns have strict rules, and trust me, it can become a whole thing (there was literally a chicken war in my hometown).

That said, gardening is widely welcomed—my wife and I just started our spring seeds, and it’s one of our favorite parts of the year.

Bottom line: If homesteading is part of your plan, make sure you’re buying in an area that allows for it.

🌪️ Tornadoes Are a Thing… But Not a Daily Thing

Yes, tornadoes do happen in Iowa. But no, they’re not an everyday occurrence.

In my 30+ years here, I’ve never personally seen one—but I know they can do real damage. The key is to buy a home with a basement, which is standard in most Iowa homes and provides safety when those rare storms do roll through.

More common than tornadoes? Flooding, especially in cities near the Mississippi River like Davenport. If you’re buying a home, make sure to check the flood plain map and whether you’ll need flood insurance.

😊 Is “Iowa Nice” Still a Thing?

There’s a phrase here called “Iowa Nice”—and yes, it’s still alive and well.

People are generally friendly, polite, and helpful. That said, we’re not immune to the occasional grumpy neighbor (shoutout to the guys who used to race lawnmowers at 1 AM).

But overall, when people move here, they’re often surprised by how friendly Iowans really are.

💼 Not Just Farms and Tractors

Agriculture is a big deal here—no doubt. But that’s not the only game in town.

I was an engineer, working in manufacturing and data centers. We also have jobs in:

• Insurance

• Tech

• Healthcare

• Remote work (thanks to solid internet infrastructure)

So don’t assume you’ll have to become a farmer—unless that’s your thing.

🚗 Traffic Isn’t Bad, But Watch the Speed Cams

One of the best parts of Iowa life? Traffic is minimal.

Even in Des Moines or Cedar Rapids, you’re not stuck in LA-style gridlock. That said—watch out for speed cameras. Seriously. I got nailed in LeClaire for just cruising a little too fast.

🍽️ Our Restaurant Scene Deserves More Credit

Iowa’s food scene may not make national headlines, but it’s better than most people think, especially in our cities.

Here’s what you’ll find:

• Thai, Indian, and sushi spots in Davenport

• Incredible local joints in Des Moines and Ankeny

• And of course… pork tenderloin sandwiches (grilled, not fried, with mayo if you ask me)

📦 Thinking of Moving to Iowa?

Wherever you're headed in Iowa, you’ll want a local expert to help guide the way—and that’s where I come in.

I’m a licensed Realtor in Iowa and would love to help you and your family find the perfect home. If you're moving to an area I don’t personally serve, I’ve got trusted partners all over the state.

📞 Give me a call or shoot me a text. I’m here to help.

🎥 Want to see more about life in Iowa? Watch the full video here: