“This is one of the only places I’ve been where it’s not cutthroat. People are happy for others to succeed… Chasing the art dream is a lot of effort, and to come out here and sort of pool all our resources was really interesting and cool.”
“This is one of the only places I’ve been where it’s not cutthroat. People are happy for others to succeed… Chasing the art dream is a lot of effort, and to come out here and sort of pool all our resources was really interesting and cool.”
Kyle Kirwin, Mainframe Studios
“I ended up choosing Des Moines because the cost of living and pay for my career were something I never saw in Nashville and thought, ‘this is how I can enjoy extra things in life while also saving.’”
Stephanie Von Ahnen, Moved from Tennessee in 2020
“Moving to Iowa opened so many doors for me personally and professionally, and I can easily say it’s the best decision I’ve ever made.”
Grace Altenhofen, Moved from Kansas in 2019
“Since returning, I’ve found that Iowa offers exactly what I needed: a community that embraces you, a cost of living that lets you put down real roots, and a creative space where I could pick up my guitar and paintbrush again.”
Bradford Johnson, Moved from Minnesota in 2022
“There are so many great people and networking communities out here that support me through different aspects of my life.”
Yamah Dolo, Moved from Illinois in 2025
