What is the capital of Iowa?

The capital of Iowa is Des Moines, a global center for the insurance industry and home to a vibrant and rapidly growing downtown arts and culture scene.

How many people live in Iowa?

Iowa has a population of approximately 3.2 million people, making it the 31st most populous state in the U.S.

When was Iowa admitted to the Union?

Iowa was admitted to the Union on December 28, 1846, becoming the 29th state.

What is Iowa known for?

Iowa is known as the Hawkeye State and is famous for its agricultural dominance in corn and pork, its first-in-the-nation caucuses, renewable wind energy, and the University of Iowa's celebrated Writers Workshop.

Iowa

The Hawkeye State

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Quick Stats

3.2MPopulation

#31Rank

1846Joined

56.3kArea (mi²)

Map

Seal & Motto

"Our Liberties We Prize and Our Rights We Will Maintain"

Additional Information

AbbreviationIA

Motto Origin

Reflects the state's fierce commitment to personal freedom.

Adopted 1847/1846.

Official WebsiteIowa.gov

Population Growth

Overview

Iowa, the 'Hawkeye State,' is a legendary food capital of the world and a quintessential American heartland. Nestled between two of the nation's greatest rivers, it is an agricultural titan and a leading center for insurance, renewable energy, and world-class higher education today.

Historical Significance

Iowa officially joined the Union on December 28, 1846, as the 29th state. Its history is a narrative of rapid agricultural expansion from Native American homelands to becoming the cornerstone of the nation's food supply and a pivotal state in the American political landscape through its first-in-the-nation caucuses.

Top Cities & Hubs

Des Moines

Population: ~215,000

The state capital and a global insurance capital, featuring a vibrant and rapidly growing downtown, a celebrated arts scene, and one of the most livable metro areas in the Midwest.

Cedar Rapids

Population: ~135,000

Known as the "City of Five Seasons," it is a leading center for grain processing and aerospace electronics and celebrates a rich Czech and Slovak cultural heritage.

Davenport

Population: ~102,000

The largest of the Quad Cities on the Mississippi River, a significant hub for manufacturing, healthcare, and transportation connecting Iowa and Illinois.

Sioux City

Population: ~86,000

A major agribusiness and food processing center at the head of navigation on the Missouri River, serving as a regional gateway for the tri-state area.

Iowa City

Population: ~75,000

Home to the University of Iowa and a UNESCO City of Literature, this vibrant college town is famous for its celebrated Writers Workshop and cutting-edge medical research.

Neighbors

Region: Midwest

Capital: Des Moines

Key Landmarks & Economy

Iowa State Capitol: A 19th-century masterpiece featuring a breathtaking gold-leaf dome, this capitol building in Des Moines is considered one of the most beautiful in the entire nation.

Amana Colonies: Seven historic villages established in 1855 by German settlers, now a National Historic Landmark offering handcrafted goods, traditional food, and rich cultural heritage.

Agricultural Powerhouse: Iowa is the nation's top producer of corn, pork, and eggs, and generates over 60% of its electricity from wind turbines, leading the nation in clean energy.

Did You Know?

Iowa is the only state in the nation whose entire eastern border and entire western border are formed completely by rivers — the Mississippi and Missouri.
The first computer, the Atanasoff-Berry Computer (ABC), was invented at Iowa State University between 1937 and 1942 by John Atanasoff and Clifford Berry.
Iowa consistently generates over 60% of its electricity from wind power, making it one of the global leaders in renewable wind energy production.