Well… it turns out there are actually some great reasons. A strong agricultural industry, friendly communities, and a relatively low cost of living make it a pretty attractive place—especially for families and anyone looking to escape the chaos of city life. I may have borrowed that from somewhere, but hey, it’s true! More and more people are trading in big-city hustle for small-town charm.
Of course, moving to a smaller town means adjusting to a few new things. Some are undeniably great—like less traffic. We can all agree that’s a win… unless there’s road work. Then it’s a whole different story.
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Another major perk? Lower noise pollution. It’s peaceful out here—unless you happen to live next to train tracks. In that case, your mileage may vary.
And then there’s the natural beauty. Iowa has some truly stunning landscapes that deserve way more credit.
But let’s be honest: not everything is perfect. So if you’re a Californian thinking about relocating, here are a few surprises you might want to brace yourself for:
Californians Moving to Iowa Are In For a Big Surprise
1. Humidity
Let’s just say… it’s a different kind of heat here. Iowa humidity hits hard and sticks around. I’ve lived here my whole life and still haven’t fully adjusted.
2. Early to Bed, Early to Rise
Most restaurants and businesses close by 8 PM. In big cities, that’s when places are just getting started. So if you like late-night eats, prepare to become a planner.
3. Rain, and More Rain
California weather can be wildly unpredictable, but Iowa? It rains—regularly. Pack an umbrella and some waterproof shoes. You’ll need them.
4. Where Are All the Celebrities?
You’ll find about ten truly famous people from Iowa… and two of them aren’t even alive anymore. So, if you’re hoping to bump into your favorite actor at the grocery store, maybe keep those expectations low.
