Rural Living in Greater Des Moines

While Iowa’s capital city Des Moines and its surrounding suburb communities are known for their proximity to urban areas, amenities and walkable neighborhoods, rural towns in Greater Des Moines (DSM) have a lot to offer, too. If you’ve ever thought of moving to the country to reap the advantages of living in a small town, you’ll want to keep reading. Moving from the city to a rural area is a big change, but you might be surprised by the numerous benefits of living in a small town. 

In Greater Des Moines (DSM), living life in rural Iowa might not be the first thing you think of when you consider where to make your home, but it’s one of the best states to move for rural living. Why do people move to rural areas? One of the best parts about rural places to live is they often come with a lot of history — and those historical stories are why small towns endure. 

Overhead view of the Winterset town square.

History in Rural Communities

Take the town of Winterset. This rural community was once the backdrop for the movie, Bridges of Madison County. Not only that, but “The Duke,” also known as Hollywood actor John Wayne, was born here and later moved to rural town, Earlham (where community members like Alissa Johnson work hard to ensure this small town is a place to gather and give back). The Madison County courthouse sits in the middle of Winterset’s downtown square, a feature of many rural communities.

Pella is another rural town with a rich history. You can see the community’s Dutch history in attractions like the Pella Historical Museums and the Molengracht Plaza, while Pella’s colorful tulip festival each spring is an ode to the Netherlands as well. 

Working in Rural Communities

What about working in rural Iowa? The healthcare industry in Iowa’s rural towns offers many opportunities. In Knoxville, Knoxville Hospital & Clinics, an affiliate of MercyOne, is continuing the expansion of its Emergency Department. University of Iowa Health Care is also investing in rural cancer care after adding Mission Cancer + Blood  clinics to the UI system, including those in the rural communities of Grinnell, Knoxville, Newton, Pella, Winterset and others.  

A man inside a warehouse using machinery.

In Pella, you can make your mark manufacturing industry by working at Pella Corporation. In 2025, Pella Corporation celebrates 100 years of innovation, continuing to announce new products like the redesigned wood sliding patio doors. Also in Pella? Vermeer Corporation, a staple in ag innovation and more. These rural employers within Iowa’s largest industries aren’t slowing down and offer a place to build the career you’ve always wanted while taking advantage of the relaxing pace of life found rurally. 

School districts and small, locally owned businesses  also offer employment options in DSM’s small towns. Browse jobs hiring now to see the full scope of jobs in DSM and read up on DSM’s key industries to learn more about employment opportunities. 

  • A row of newly built homes with for sale signs in the yard,

    Development in Rural Housing

    • Rural communities are served by economic development offices like Jasper County Economic Development, Madison County Development Group,  Marion County Development, Midwest Partnership and Poweshiek Iowa Development promote business growth, job creation, housing initiatives and economic development within their communities. 

      • Economic growth is aided by businesses that take action to nurture rural Iowa, too. Iowa Farm Bureau’s Renew Rural Iowa program specifically looks to grow business in the state’s small towns. Incentives are among the reasons the best rural places to live can thrive. It can’t hurt to think about moving to a small town. The state of Iowa also invests in rural communities through the Empower Rural Iowa initiative. 

        Two small businesses. One is a flower shop and a woman is watering the plants outside. The other is a coffee shop. The exterior is brick with green doors.

        Tips for Living in a Rural Community

        If you're considering moving to a rural area, here are some tips for settling in and making DSM your home: 

        • Get to know others living in your community. Rural towns have smaller populations, but what they lack in numbers, they make up for in connection.
        • Attend local markets and events to support your neighbors like the Vintage + Made Fair in Adel or the Knoxville Nationals in Knoxville. Whichever rural community you choose to make a home in, attending local events like this will guarantee there's always a familiar face to greet you.
        • Many local events are also volunteer-powered, which is another great way to get involved and give back at the same time.
        • School districts are often the heart of small towns and rural communities in Iowa. If you have kids, get plugged in through school activities, clubs and events. No kids? Check into volunteer programs.
          • DSM is big on recreation – from biking to pickleball to adult sport leagues. If these hobbies are up your alley, know you're in good company in DSM. Recreation hobbies are also a good way to meet people with shared interests. 
          • Speaking of meeting people: DSM MVPs. This community connector program introduces newcomers to DSM MVPs who are here to answer questions and provide insights to DSM. Connect with an MVP today.

          Make Your Move

          Whether you’re contemplating moving from the city to a small town or looking for a new small town to call home, DSM is where you can find your greater. Request a free relocation guide for more tips for moving to DSM.