Iowa retirement options are fewer than in larger states with warmer climates, but here you will find friendly people, many small town amenities throughout the state, and a relaxed country lifestyle that for some retirees can forms a great American dream.

About 70% of Iowa's land is for agriculture but there are many cultural and historical charms as well.  Iowa's covered bridges formed the basis for R. Waller's novel and the film "The Bridges of Madison County".

The bluffs of the Mississippi in Dubuque are home to many beautiful Victorian mansions. The Cedar Rapids Museum of Art has the largest collection of painter Grant Wood's art in the world, though his iconic "American Gothic" remains in Chicago.   The Herbert Hoover National Historic Site in West Branch features a collection of Laura Ingalls Wilder historical materials as well as papers of President Hoover.

IIowa is bordered by the Mississippi River on the east and by the Missouri and the Big Sioux rivers on the West.

Des Moines is Iowa's state capital and the largest city, though the "Quad Cities" area is considered by some to be the key metropolitan area of Iowa.  Here,  Davenport and Bettendorf Iowa share the river with Moline and Rock Island, Illinois.

Des Moines - Iowa City - Cedar Rapids - Council Bluff - Sioux City - Dubuque