Living Here

Iowa is one of the most livable states in the nation and livability in the Cedar Valley Region of Iowa is ideal.

In today’s economy and global environment livability may be a critical factor in the decision process in order to select a safe, clean and vibrant community.

• Iowa is ranked the nation's 2nd-most livable state based on 43 factors ranging from median household income to crime rate and from sunny days to infant mortality rate.
• Iowa ranks 1st in the U.S. when it comes to high school graduation rates.  
• Iowa’s commute time to work is 18.8 minutes, which is among the lowest in the nation. 
• Iowa ranks 10th in safest neighborhoods in the U.S. 
• Iowa’s housing costs are the 9th lowest in the nation. 
• Iowa is rated the 7th best state in which to raise a child.
• Iowa ranks 8th in the nation for number of state parks, recreational areas and natural areas.

County Websites:

• Live the Valley
• Butler County
• City of Waverly
• Grundy County Development Alliance
• Grow Buchanan
• Independence Area Chamber of Commerce
• City of New Hampton
• New Hampton Chamber of Commerce
• Waverly Welcome Home