Why Now Is the Time to Grow in Greater Des Moines

Greater Des Moines has become one of the Midwest's most compelling growth stories.

While many regions face slower growth and economic uncertainty, Greater Des Moines continues to gain momentum. Strong business investment, population growth and national recognition are helping position the region for its next phase of success.

As the region approaches the one million-resident milestone, companies are finding a market that combines affordability, talent, quality of life and long-term economic strength. Just as importantly, they are finding a region that continues to invest in its future.

A Region on the Rise

The growth happening in Greater Des Moines did not happen overnight. It is the result of years of investment, regional collaboration and a business environment designed to support long-term success.

Recent analysis from demographic strategist James Chung of Reach Advisors identifies Greater Des Moines as one of the Midwest's standout growth markets. While many communities are focused on maintaining population and workforce levels, Greater Des Moines continues to add residents, jobs and economic output. That distinction is helping the region attract increasing attention from companies and site selectors evaluating future investment opportunities.

What makes the region’s growth story notable is that it is occurring at a time when many Midwestern markets are working to maintain population and workforce levels. Greater Des Moines has continued to attract new residents, support business expansion and create opportunities across multiple industries. That combination has helped the region stand out among peer markets and build momentum that continues to compound over time.

Indianola, Iowa

Growth by the Numbers

Over the past several years, Greater Des Moines has generated more than $5.7 billion in economic development activity, reflecting confidence from both existing employers and new investors.

Investment activity tells only part of the story. Beyond major corporate projects, new business formation is accelerating, creating a pipeline of future employers and reinforcing confidence in the region's long-term economic trajectory.

National recognition from Site Selection Magazine and other business publications continues to reinforce the region's growing profile and competitiveness. These recognitions matter because they reflect what companies are already seeing firsthand: a region that is growing, investing and creating opportunities.

Pella, Iowa

Why Companies Are Choosing Greater Des Moines

Greater Des Moines offers a strong business climate, competitive operating costs and a quality of life that helps attract and retain talent.

Partnerships among employers, educational institutions and workforce organizations help companies meet evolving talent needs, while affordable housing, short commute times and a lower cost of living continue to attract workers and families.

The region's collaborative approach to economic development is another advantage. Companies often find that local partners are willing to work together to solve challenges and help projects move forward efficiently.

For many companies, speed and certainty matter as much as cost. The ability to quickly connect with decision-makers, workforce partners and community leaders can have a significant impact on project timelines. Greater Des Moines has built a reputation for bringing the right people to the table and helping companies navigate opportunities efficiently.

A Growing Ecosystem for Business

Growth in Greater Des Moines is not limited to large employers. According to the Greater Des Moines Partnership's 2026 DSM Small Business Jobs Report, new small businesses created 9,939 jobs in 2023 while the region added 1,756 new small business establishments, the highest level recorded in the past decade.

The report also found that overall employment growth in Greater Des Moines reached 25.3%, compared to 19.9% nationally. Together, these figures highlight the strength of the region's business climate and entrepreneurial ecosystem.

From startups and family-owned businesses to expanding employers, growth is occurring across the economy and helping create a more resilient foundation for the future.

Some of today's fastest-growing companies started as small businesses. That's one reason entrepreneurship remains such an important part of the region's long-term economic strategy.

New businesses bring innovation, create jobs and often become future growth companies. Combined with strong corporate investment, a healthy startup ecosystem helps ensure growth is occurring across multiple segments of the economy rather than relying on a single industry or employer base.

Johnston, Iowa

Looking Ahead

As Greater Des Moines approaches one million residents, the region is reaching a new level of scale, visibility and competitiveness.

Reaching that milestone will be more than symbolic. It represents a level of growth that can help attract larger projects, support workforce expansion and increase national visibility.

As companies evaluate where to invest for the future, Greater Des Moines is increasingly appearing on the shortlist of communities positioned for long-term success.

For companies looking to expand, invest or establish a presence in the Midwest, Greater Des Moines offers a rare combination of momentum, talent and opportunity.

_Sources:_{Greater Des Moines Partnership 2026 DSM Small Business Jobs Report; U.S. Census Bureau Business Dynamics Statistics; Bureau of Labor Statistics Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW).}

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