Economic development services provided by the Iowa Area Development Group

American industry runs like a finely tuned engine when powered by a productive work force. Iowa has a long tradition of providing a productive workforce that can be the difference business can bank on for profitable operations.

Several regions of the state have completed laborshed studies to determine labor availability for new and expanding companies. A Laborshed is defined as the area or region from which an employment center draws its commuting workers. Laborshed studies show the distribution of the workers regardless of natural or political boundaries. Laborsheds also address underemployment, the availability and willingness of current and prospective employees to change employment within the workforce, current and desired occupations, wages, hours worked and distance willing to commute to work. More about laborsheds in Iowa.

Iowa's 1.6 million workers make up a highly educated, highly skilled, motivated and productive workforce. Productivity is well above the national average in value added per worker.

Because of Iowa's productive labor force, unemployment insurance rates are among the lowest in the nation. In fact, Iowa's unemployment insurance rates are 50th nationwide. Iowa's estimated unemployment insurance cost per worker for new, non-construction employers is $173 per worker.

Here are some more surprising facts about the nation's best workforce:

Iowa ranks 2nd in the U.S. on average SAT composite scores.
Morgan Quitno State Statistical Rankings for 2001
Iowa is 2nd in the nation, tied with MN
State-by-State Report Card for Higher Education - Progressive Policy Institute
Iowa is 4th nationally in high school graduation rate (83.5% in 2000). Morgan Quitno State Rankings 2001
78% of Iowa high school graduates plan to pursue postsecondary education.
Measuring Up 2000: Report Card for Higher Education, Progressive Policy Institute
60% public satisfaction with high school preparation vs. 43% nationwide. 59% employer satisfaction with college/university preparation vs. 46% nationwide.
Public Agenda 2000
62 public and private colleges; 28 community college campuses.
Iowa is 5th lowest in the cost of doing business.
Regional Financial Associate
Iowa is in the top 10 in Academic R&D dollars per capita.
Milken Institute
Iowa has the 9th lowest workers compensation costs in the U.S.
ICN links all 99 counties to educational and training opportunities.
Iowa's manufacturing productivity is 18th highest in the nation.
Iowa Economy, Output per Worker- Hour 1997 (most recent data published)
Iowa is 2nd in business longevity.
The Brandow Company
Commutes average 1 minute per mile
37 of every 1,000 private sector workers are employed by high-tech firms; State ranks 27th in high-tech employment.
Cyberstates 2001

For more information on Iowa's Workforce, visit these websites: