When it comes to the Iowa economy, farming is still extremely important to the bottom line. The State of Iowa is the nation's leading producer of hogs! If you're a fan of pork products, you've probably eaten something from Iowa on many different occasions. Iowa also ranks extremely high in the nation in the production of cattle, various other livestock, dairy products, and eggs.
Agriculture may get the headlines, but it's manufacturing that leads the way with net earnings of over $30 billion a year. Iowa is making huge gains in food processing which helps to inflate that number year to year. Other industries which are rife with profits and job opportunities in Iowa include finance and insurance, real estate, education, professional services, wholesale trade, and retail.
And oddly and interestingly enough, Iowa is also home to both the biggest popcorn factory in the United States and one of the nation’s biggest cereal mills.
Tourism also rakes in millions upon millions of dollars for the state each year. Perhaps the biggest yearly attraction within the state is the iconic Iowa State Fair. Famous for its annual butter sculpture centerpiece and teeming with great food and awesome rides, the Iowa State Fair draws over a million visitors each year.
Other fantastic tourist attractions worth checking out in the State of Iowa include the Herbert Hoover birthplace and library just outside of West Branch; the Fort Dodge Historical Museum, Fort, and Stockade, Effigy Mounds National Monument, and the Amana Colonies.
And if you're planning on moving to Iowa with hopes of continuing your education, there are a handful of world-renowned universities and colleges that should be at or near the top of your list. The best of the best in Iowa include Grinnell College in Grinnell, the University of Iowa in Iowa City, Iowa State University in Ames, Drake University in Des Moines, Luther College in Decorah, Coe College in Cedar Rapids, the University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls, Loras College in Dubuque, and Dordt College in Sioux Center.
Now that you’ve got a general idea about what’s going on in the State of Iowa, let’s increase your trivia knowledge about the state with a list of the official inanimate and living symbols of the Hawkeye State:
Moving to Iowa has never been easier! Shipping your car, truck, or van with Nexus Auto Transport is the most efficient way for you to get on the road in the Hawkeye State and on your way to the best restaurants, colleges, entertainment, and natural wonders within its borders.