Iowa – the state where corn grows tall, the skies are wide, and the community spirit is as strong as a freshly brewed cup of coffee. It may be known for its quiet charm, but there’s so much more to Iowa than just vast fields and friendly faces. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to live in Iowa, here are 10 things only true Iowans will understand.
Corn is more than just a crop – it’s a way of life
If you’re from Iowa, you know that corn is practically our state mascot. From the endless fields of corn stretching out across the state to the sweet corn you pick up at the local farmers market, corn is everywhere. We celebrate it, we eat it, and let’s be real – we even dream about it.
The Iowa State Fair is the event of the year
Every August, the Iowa State Fair takes over, and it’s a big deal. Between the butter cow, the livestock shows, and the endless food on sticks, it’s a celebration of everything Iowa holds dear. You’ll hear stories about people who make it a tradition to visit every year, and if you haven’t been, you haven’t really experienced Iowa.
We’re serious about our “farm-to-table”
In Iowa, “farm-to-table” isn’t just a trend—it’s how we’ve been living for generations. From the freshest sweet corn to locally grown apples, the food here is top-notch. You can practically taste the pride of the farmers in every bite, and we wouldn’t have it any other way.
The weather is something we love to talk about – because it changes every five minutes
You haven’t lived in Iowa until you’ve experienced a day that starts with fog, turns into a sunny afternoon, and ends with a thunderstorm. The weather here is unpredictable, but it’s a great conversation starter. From tornado warnings to perfect fall days, we take it all in stride—and yes, we’ve all experienced at least one weather surprise in a single day.
We know that “The Hawkeyes” are more than just a college team
Iowans are passionate about their college sports, and the Iowa Hawkeyes are at the heart of that love. Whether it’s football, basketball, or wrestling, the Hawkeyes bring the state together. The tailgating, the rivalries, the team pride—it’s a state-wide tradition that you’ll hear about long before you step foot on the campus.
We’ve got a lot of pride in our small towns
It’s not just about Des Moines and Cedar Rapids—our small towns are where the true spirit of Iowa shines. Whether it’s a local parade, a farmers market, or the county fair, small-town life in Iowa means tight-knit communities and a whole lot of hometown pride. You’ll know everyone’s name, and they’ll know yours.
You’ll find yourself at a lot of church suppers
It’s not unusual for Iowans to gather at church for a potluck supper or a community event. From fried chicken to homemade pie, these gatherings are the glue that holds our communities together. You haven’t truly lived in Iowa until you’ve been to one of these meals—you’ll leave with a full belly and a full heart.
We’re secretly obsessed with the Iowa caucus
Iowans take their place in the national spotlight during the Iowa caucus, and even if you don’t care much about politics, you’ll feel the excitement in the air. It’s a time when Iowa has the eyes of the nation upon it, and everyone in the state has an opinion on it. Politics aside, it’s a big deal for us, and we wear our role with pride.
We know that “The Field of Dreams” isn’t just a movie – it’s a pilgrimage
The iconic movie Field of Dreams was filmed right here in Iowa, and it’s a must-visit for any baseball fan. Every summer, people from all over the country flock to the small town of Dyersville to see the iconic cornfield and the diamond where “if you build it, they will come.” It’s an Iowa tradition that hits us right in the feels.
We’re always happy to help, no questions asked
Iowans have a reputation for being friendly, and it’s earned. If you’re ever in need, whether it’s a neighbor helping you shovel snow or a stranger giving you directions, you can always count on someone to lend a hand. It’s the kind of state where kindness is the norm, and no one thinks twice about going the extra mile.
Living in Iowa is about appreciating the simple things—the beauty of a sunset over a cornfield, the comfort of a small-town parade, and the sense of community that’s hard to find anywhere else. Whether you’re cheering for the Hawkeyes, enjoying a home-cooked meal, or just chatting with a neighbor, Iowa is the kind of place that makes you feel at home. So, if you ever find yourself here, remember: You’ll leave with more than just memories—you’ll leave with a little bit of Iowa pride.
