Iowa , midwestern state in the N central United States. It is bounded by the Mississippi R., across which lie Wisconsin and Illinois (E); Missouri (S); Nebraska and South Dakota, from which it is separated by the Missouri and the Big Sioux rivers, respectively (W); and Minnesota (N). The deep, porous soil yields corn and other grains in tremendous quantities, and the corn-fed hogs and cattle are nationally known. In 1997, Iowa led the nation in the production of corn, soybeans, hogs, and pigs, and ranked in the top 10 in the raising of cattle. Other major crops are hay and oats. Iowa has in recent years taken in the second highest farm income of any state. Agriculture also benefits the state's chief industry, food processing, and in Sioux City and Cedar Rapids many factories process farm products. Nonelectrical machinery, farm machinery, tires, appliances, electronic equipment, and chemicals are among the other manufactures. Cement is the most important mineral product; others are stone, sand, gravel, and gypsum. Mineral production is small, however. Communications, finance, and insurance industries are especially important in Des Moines. In prehistoric times, the Mound Builders, a farming people, lived in the Iowa area. When Europeans first came to explore the region in the 17th cent., various Native American groups, including the Iowa, reputedly the source of the state's name, occupied the land. The Sac and Fox also ranged over the land, but it was the combative Sioux who dominated the area. In 1673 the French explorers Father Jacques Marquette and Louis Jolliet traveled down the Mississippi River and touched upon the Iowa shores, as did Robert Cavelier, sieur de La Salle, in 1681–82. The areas surrounding the Des Moines and Mississippi rivers were profitable for fur traders, and a number of Iowa towns developed from trading posts.

Low cost of living, low auto insurance premiums, safe communities, and quality housing makes Iowa a great place to live. Affordable apartments are available throughout Iowa.

Iowa is known as the Hawkeye State and is bordered by the great Mississippi and Missouri rivers. About 89 percent of the land area in the state is in farms. Iowa ranks first in the nation with corn, pork and egg production. It is the place where family values, exceptional work ethic, first-in-the-nation education and peace of mind all come together. Iowa apartments can provide a simpler lifestyle.

Rivers, lakes and campgrounds provide opportunities for hiking, biking, boating, fishing, and hunting or just enjoying the outdoor beauty of Iowa. It has ski resorts for sports like skiing, snowboarding and tubing. Golfers can choose from more than 290 courses. Iowa has beautiful scenic byways. Iowa has the sixth shortest commute time which gives families more time to enjoy life. Rent an apartment and enjoy living in Iowa.

Educational opportunities abound, and Iowa has apartment rentals to meet the needs of students. Quality education abounds at Iowa colleges and universities. University of Iowa, Iowa State University and University of Northern Iowa are a few of the educational choices. Community colleges offer preparatory career programs of vocational and technical education.