In Cedar Rapids, life is easy—in the best possible way. This family-friendly region offers a rare mix of safety, connection, and opportunity that feels like a throwback to simpler times. Think: neighbors who know your name, kids riding bikes without worry, and a strong sense of community where it’s easy to plug in and make a difference. With a low cost of living, short commutes, and direct access to major employers like Collins Aerospace, BAE, and PepsiCo/Quaker, the region is also a hub of innovation and advanced manufacturing. Just 30 minutes from Iowa City and the University of Iowa, residents can cheer on the Hawkeyes or enjoy world-class arts and entertainment. Plus, with a well-connected regional airport offering direct flights, you're never far from where you need to be.

Cedar Rapids

Sarah Michelle was on a cross-country road trip when she found herself between Ohio and Omaha, Nebraska, in need of a hotel room. A stopover in Cedar Rapids was a logical choice. 

“Soon after,” she says, “my internet algorithms flooded my feed with stories and statistics about Cedar Rapids being one of the happiest cities in the country, one of the most entrepreneurial, one of the best places to be single and one of the most affordable places to buy a nice home.” 

What one Cedar Rapids transplant loves about her new life in Iowa. 

A smiling woman in casual attire stands before a colorful wing mural, creating a joyful and uplifting atmosphere.

In the image, a woman stands in front of a vibrant mural depicting large, colorful wings. She wears a cheerful smile and a casual outfit, with a reddish-brown jacket, a patterned top, and blue jeans. The wings in the mural are painted in shades of pink, blue, and yellow, creating a striking contrast against the darker background of the mural.

The mood of the photo is uplifting and joyful. The combination of the woman's smile and the whimsical, ethereal wings suggests a sense of freedom and imagination. It evokes feelings of happiness, playfulness, and a sense of possibility, as if the woman is embracing her inner strength or spirit. The vibrant colors and artistic elements add to the overall positive and fun atmosphere of the scene.

Why I Love Living in Cedar Rapids, IA — And You Will, Too

Fast fact: Cedar Rapids is the largest corn-processing city in the world and one of the leading bioprocessing and food ingredient centers in North America. As impressive as that is, Cedar Rapids has many other impressive aspects that help make life happy around here.

Quality of life amenities include museums, two main theaters, 74 parks, four golf courses, six public swimming pools, two major hospitals and Eastern Iowa Airport. Other advantages include top-notch schools, a good transportation network and a pro-business government.

Cedar Rapids is home to 24 Fortune 500 companies, including big names like Cargill, General Mills, Nordstrom, Quaker Oats and Whirlpool. About 300 advanced manufacturing plants have operations here, and the insurance and finance industries keep growing strong, too. Other major sectors are aerospace, biotechnology, defense, education services, food and beverage, health care, IT, packaging and renewable energy.

 is sponsored by the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance, which is home to a half million creative residents and covers 4,400 square miles in eastern Iowa including the seven county region of Benton, Cedar, Iowa, Johnson, Jones, Linn and Washington counties.

Livability Cedar Rapids

Verify your application and eligibility by uploading a 

. Learn more about the community by connecting with a community champion.

You're waiting for a formal offer from the community. In the meantime, 

You have been selected to formally join the program! Review your offer details and 

. Keep us posted on your progress. And if you need a hand, we’re here to connect you with helpful resources.

 or connect with the program owner about receiving your program benefits.

Thinking about a fresh start? Fort Wayne, Indiana is calling—with job opportunities, welcoming neighborhoods, and exclusive incentives to help you make your move and start your next chapter.

Located in the heart of Northeast Indiana, Fort Wayne combines big-city energy with small-town ease. As one of the fastest-growing metros in the region, Fort Wayne boasts a booming job market, a low cost of living, and an unbeatable quality of life. From riverfront parks and family-friendly attractions to a lively arts scene and innovative employers—this city has something for everyone.

Whether you're building your career, buying your first home, or looking to plug into a vibrant, welcoming community, Fort Wayne is ready for you.

Fort Wayne and Allen County are home to a dynamic mix of industries and some of the region’s most respected employers — all in a city where your money stretches further, your commute is shorter, and your quality of life is hard to beat. Here, your career potential is matched by a community that’s invested in your success.

Fort Wayne offers diverse and growing career paths:

 – Parkview Health, the region’s largest employer, and Lutheran Health Network provide thousands of opportunities in nursing, administration, and support services.

 – From General Motors’ massive assembly plant to defense contractors like BAE Systems and Raytheon, advanced manufacturing is a cornerstone of Fort Wayne’s economy.

 – Amazon’s fulfillment centers and other logistics hubs are taking advantage of Fort Wayne’s central location and growing workforce.

 – Companies like Lincoln Financial Group, Brotherhood Mutual, and an expanding cluster of IT and fintech firms are creating strong opportunities for professionals.

We know searching for a job can be intimidating and overwhelming. We've created an Employment Guide to help. Explore our recommended job board, industries, employers, and training opportunities in the area.

Fort Wayne and Allen County, IN Employment Guide

Up to 5% in Down Payment & Closing Cost Assistance


Eligible buyers can receive up to 5% of the home purchase price toward down payment and closing costs through the Hoosier Homes Plus program—helping you put down roots with confidence.

1-Month Family Membership to the Fort Wayne Museum of Art


Enjoy full access to one of the city’s cultural gems with a complimentary membership for your household. Explore engaging exhibitions, family workshops, and creative events in the heart of downtown.


Meet new friends, discover your favorite local spots, and feel at home fast through curated welcome events designed to help you connect and thrive in your new community.

Relocating is a big step, but Fort Wayne makes it easier. This relocation program helps you discover local employers, offers resources to get settled, and helps you start strong in both your career and your new city. Apply today to explore the opportunities waiting in Fort Wayne.

Life in Fort Wayne, Indiana offers the perfect mix of opportunity and affordability. As the second-largest city in the state, Fort Wayne features a thriving job market, a low cost of living, and vibrant neighborhoods filled with parks, restaurants, and entertainment. Residents enjoy easy access to top-rated schools, award-winning trails, and a welcoming, community-focused atmosphere that makes it easy to feel at home.

Fort Wayne

Forge Ahead: In-Person Jobs in Fort Wayne

5% in down payment assistance and closing costs for eligible buyers through the Hoosier Homes Plus program 

1-month Fort Wayne Museum of Art Family Membership

Special invite to Meet Me at 5:05 Networking event

Southern Indiana is known for its stunning rolling hills, affordable living, and genuine hospitality. While visitors flock to popular destinations like the French Lick Resort and the historic West Baden Springs Hotel, the region is also home to a vibrant local community filled with thriving small businesses and tight knit neighborhoods. With scenic views, welcoming towns, and a strong spirit of connection, Southern Indiana offers more than just a place to live—it’s a place to belong. It’s easy to see why so many are proud to call it home

Explore the Perks of Life in Southern Indiana

Tucked into the rolling hills of the Hoosier state, Southern Indiana combines natural beauty, close knit communities, and a growing regional economy. With charming small towns, strong school systems, and easy access to outdoor recreation, it’s a place where quality of life and opportunity go hand in hand. Residents enjoy scenic parks, historic landmarks, local wineries, and year-round events that bring people together. From relocation support to lifestyle perks, we’ve assembled a collection of benefits to help you settle in, make connections, and thrive in Southern Indiana from day one:

Receive $5,000 to help cover your moving costs to Daviees, Greene, Crawford, Martin, Orange, or Dubois County–making settling into your new Southern Indiana home a smooth and stress-free experience.

 Explore the natural beauty of Indiana all year long with free access to over 30 state parks including nearby gems like Patoka Lake, Spring Mill, and O’Bannon Woods. Perfect for hiking, camping, and weekend adventures.

Free Checking Account at Springs Valley Bank & Trust + $250 Bonus: 

Get started financially with a free checking account at a trusted local bank and enjoy a $250 cash bonus just for signing up.

 Connect with your new neighbors at exclusive quarterly events just for new residents. From group hikes and beach days to winery tours and local festivals, it’s a great way to explore the region and build community.

Choose Two Bonus Experiences from the List Below:

Enjoy a complimentary tour and tasting at Patoka Lake Winery, known for its scenic vineyard views and award-winning wines. A perfect introduction to the region’s growing wine scene.

Free Visit to Wilstem Ranch Drive-Through Safari: 

Get up close with exotic animals on a unique drive-through safari adventure at Wilstem Ranch, where you can spot giraffes, zebras, kangaroos, and more.

Tickets for Two to Dinner and a Musical at Abbeydell Hall: 

Experience a charming night out with dinner and live entertainment at Abbeydell Hall, located at the historic French Lick Resort. Expect Broadway-style performances with a local twist!

and go-to local for all things Southern Indiana. She is here to make sure you feel right at home from day one—ready to answer your questions, connect you to local resources, and help you settle into the community. Whether it’s showing you around town or introducing you to other locals, Kristal is here to make your move as smooth and as possible 👋

Check Out the Counties in Our Choose Southern Indiana Program

Home to a strong manufacturing base and a vibrant Amish community, Daviess County offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation. Enjoy quiet countryside living with easy access to quality schools, local markets, and family-friendly events.

Known for its beautiful rural landscapes and outdoor recreation, Greene County is perfect for nature lovers. With peaceful small towns, affordable living, and welcoming residents, it’s a great place to slow down and build community.

Nestled along the Ohio River, Crawford County is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with access to hiking, fishing, and Hoosier National Forest. Its tight-knit communities and scenic views make it a peaceful place to call home.

A hidden gem with charming towns and a strong sense of pride, Martin County offers affordability, safety, and simplicity. Residents enjoy easy access to nature and a slower pace of life that’s perfect for families and remote workers.

Home to the French Lick Resort and historic West Baden Springs Hotel, Orange County is a tourism hotspot with a rich cultural heritage. Residents benefit from economic growth, natural beauty, and a wide variety of recreational opportunities.

A thriving business and manufacturing hub, Dubois County combines economic opportunity with small-town charm. Its award-winning schools, clean neighborhoods, and active arts scene make it one of Southern Indiana’s most desirable places to live.

This program is sponsored by Radius Indiana with support from the Indiana Economic Development Corporation.

Jessi Etienne

Bear Hollow Wood Carvers

Julie Montgomery

French Lick Winery

Steve White

Owner, White's Quality Auto Service

Southern Indiana is fun, friendly, and affordable. From the quiet charm of Amish markets to the glitz and glamour of a Vegas-style casino, Southern Indiana offers something to make everyone feel at home. For outdoor recreation, try boating or fishing in Shakamak State Park, go hunting in the Glendale Fish and Wildlife Area, or take a stroll along the scenic Jasper River Walk

French Lick

Choose Southern Indiana

Free checking account at Springs Valley Bank & Trust (plus enjoy a $250 bonus)

Quarterly Mover Events including: hikes, beach days, winery tours, and more

Visit to the Wilstem Ranch Drive Through Safari

Discover a Fulfilling Career & Life in Southern Indiana

In Southern Indiana, mornings might start with a drive past rolling hills and end with a walk by the lake after work. Between those moments, you’ll find real opportunity: steady careers in industries like healthcare, defense, and advanced manufacturing, where employers know your name and value your work. Through the Jobs in Southern Indiana program, Kristal and her team will help you connect with employers, secure relocation benefits, and guide your move step by step, so you can put down roots with confidence. 🌳

Here's what awaits you in Southern Indiana:

 Receive $5,000 to help with your relocation expenses, easing your transition to your new home.

 Enjoy a year of free access to Indiana's stunning state parks with an annual pass to the 

 checking account and receive a $250 bonus to kickstart your financial journey in Southern Indiana.

 Participate in quarterly Mover Events designed to help you connect with fellow newcomers and experience the best of Southern Indiana, including hikes, beach days, winery tours, and more!

is your dedicated program manager! She’s here to help you every step of the way. 

 she loves the outdoors and is always up for an adventure (you can probably tell from her photo!).  

Southern Indiana’s economy is built on stable, well-paying work across a range of industries — from defense and healthcare to advanced manufacturing and hospitality. Here are some of the top sectors and employers shaping the region’s workforce:

 – Anchored by NSA Crane, one of the region’s largest employers, with careers in engineering, logistics, and skilled trades. Partners like SCI REMC, Crane contractors, and the Battery Innovation Center in Greene County also hire for technical and support roles.

 – A regional powerhouse led by Kimball International, MasterBrand Cabinets, Jasper Engines & Transmissions, and Best Home Furnishings. Other major employers like Berry Global, Indiana Furniture, and DMI Furniture strengthen the area’s advanced manufacturing base.

 offers long-term careers in construction, project management, and trades, with a focus on teamwork and craftsmanship.

 leads in transportation and logistics, with roles in driving, maintenance, operations, and sales — supported by Southern Indiana’s strong highway network.

 – Top employers include Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center (Jasper), Daviess Community Hospital (Washington), and IU Health Bedford Hospital. Behavioral health providers Southern Hills Counseling Center and Centerstone of Indiana also offer rewarding careers.

 – Natural attractions sustain strong hospitality employers like French Lick Resort, Paoli Peaks, and Patoka Lake Marina, offering both seasonal and year-round opportunities.

 – Employers such as Perdue Farms, Lehigh Hanson Cement, and Pike Lumber Company support jobs in agriculture, forestry, and environmental management.

 – County governments, local schools, and colleges like Vincennes University Jasper Campus and Ivy Tech provide stable careers in education and community development.

Southern Indiana offers a unique blend of rural charm, natural beauty, and modern amenities:

 Experience the warmth and hospitality of close-knit communities where neighbors become like family.

 Enjoy peace of mind with low crime rates and a strong emphasis on safety.

 Benefit from locally-sized schools with a focus on quality education and community involvement.

 Immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes of Southern Indiana, with rolling hills, mature forests, beautiful streams and lakes, and four distinct seasons.

 Explore the region with ease, thanks to convenient highway access to both urban centers and natural attractions.

This program boasts 8 scenic and rich counties in Southern Indiana in which participants can live and work:

 Discover unspoiled natural beauty and a growing community eager to welcome new residents. Enjoy a slower pace of life with easy access to outdoor recreation and the charm of small-town living. Be part of shaping the future of this welcoming county.


 Experience the warmth of true community spirit and a rich heritage in Daviess County. Explore local Amish markets, connect with friendly residents, and enjoy the abundance of natural resources and outdoor activities.


 Embrace a family-friendly atmosphere in Dubois County, known for its tight-knit communities and excellent schools. Discover charming towns with vibrant downtowns, diverse dining, and plenty of recreational activities for all ages.


Find your adventure in Greene County, home to breathtaking outdoor recreation, historic landmarks, and the longest-running 4th of July parade in Indiana. Explore the vast 

 Explore the "Limestone Capital of the World" and the birthplace of astronauts. Lawrence County offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and small-town charm. Enjoy top-rated schools, a variety of amenities, and a central location for exploring Southern Indiana.


 Experience the tranquility of rural living in Martin County, with its close-knit communities, affordable cost of living, and emphasis on safety. Discover breathtaking scenery, explore the 

, and enjoy the unique charm of small-town life.


 Indulge in the best of both worlds in Orange County, where rural beauty meets world-class tourism. Explore stunning natural landscapes, visit the renowned 

, and enjoy a variety of recreational activities.


 Step back in time while enjoying modern comforts in Washington County. Hike the scenic 

. Discover a community that values both its heritage and its future.

Making a move can feel daunting, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. Kristal and her team are here to help you every step of the way, from helping you find local employers to securing housing and settling into your new community. They’ll connect you with resources, introduce you to hiring partners, and make sure your transition to Southern Indiana is smooth, supported, and full of opportunity. Apply today to start the process.

This program is provided by Radius Indiana.

Discover a Fulfilling Career & Lifestyle in Southern Indiana!
Looking for a place where career success meets a vibrant lifestyle? Southern Indiana has it all! With its stunning landscapes, tight-knit communities, and a thriving job market, it’s the perfect place to grow professionally while enjoying life.

Jobs in Southern Indiana

Unlock a year of adventure with an Annual Pass to Indiana State Parks! 

Get your finances off to a great start with a free checking account at Springs Valley Bank & Trust, plus enjoy a $250 bonus to help you settle in and get your new life rolling!

Join the fun with Quarterly Mover Events – enjoy exciting hikes, relaxing beach days, delightful winery tours, and so much more!

Sip, savor, and explore with a free guided tour behind the scenes at Patoka Lake Winery

• Prevented from creating new community posts and comments

These incredible communities are welcoming remote workers, teachers, nurses and more with incentives and networking programs.

Move to the place that moves you.

Users are automatically given this role when one of their posts is approved

• Community posts no longer require approval

• Can moderate comments on community posts

Your place is calling, and we're here to help you get there

Interested in living in {{formattedLocationText}}? Read local reviews and explore statistics on crime, school systems, real estate, and cost of living.

• Can invite new members to the community

• Can change the roles of other members, excluding Owners

• Can change the roles of all other members

{{formattedLocationText}} - Guide to Living & Working

Post with pictures to get more clicks! 📸

Feel free to add a hashtag to your post in the text box if there is a topic you’d like to add.

If you’d like to include a link, click the chain link icon in the bottom of the text box.

Please share this post on your personal sites and social media.

Lifestyle in Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Tell us about your community

Get Paid to Live in Cedar Rapids, Iowa