1. How genuinely kind and honest people are
A lot of people who used to live in Iowa are surprised by how much they miss the direct friendliness and honesty that are common there. It can be hard to find people who are ready to help each other out and interact with you in a simple, kind way elsewhere.
2. The simplicity and community feel of a small town
It’s hard to feel like you fit and are part of a community in a big city or a place where people move around a lot. The slower pace, seeing old friends, and community events make you miss home in a strange way after you leave.
3. Clear air and lots of space
It’s easy to forget how nice the air is and how open the land is in Iowa until you move somewhere with more pollution, traffic, or urban sprawl. A lot of people miss being able to relax and see the faraway.
4. Thunderstorms and Stormy Weather
Strong rains and strange weather patterns are a unique part of life in Iowa. People often don’t realise how much they’ll miss the thrill of watching a summer storm come in until it’s over.
5. Favorite foods in the area (Maid-Rites, pork tenderloins, sweet corn)
Lots of people miss Iowan foods, like Maid-Rite sandwiches, big breaded pork tenderloins and fresh sweet corn. You won’t be able to find or make these favourite foods anywhere else.
6. The Iowa State Fair and other strange events
There aren’t many events like the Iowa State Fair, with its Butter Cow, fried foods on sticks, and unique games. A lot of people also miss the fairs, parades, and other fun events that bring people together in small towns.
7. Farmer’s markets and fresh food grown nearby
People often don’t think they’ll miss Iowa’s many farmer’s markets that sell fresh food and homemade goods until they can’t find the same quality or sense of community anywhere else.
8. Unique landmarks and attractions in the area
The Field of Dreams, the Bridges of Madison County, and the Amana Colonies aren’t just tourist spots; they’re part of everyday life and memories in the area.
9. The rivalry and friendship between Hawkeye and Cyclone sports
A big part of what makes people in this area who they is is their fierce devotion to the University of Iowa Hawkeyes or the Iowa State Cyclones. When sports fans move away, they miss the friendships and fun competition they made at games and tailgates.
10. Stories and traditions from Iowa and what they mean to people
There are stories that sound strange in other places that sound normal in Iowa, like buying cows for a midlife crisis or building snow forts after a blizzard. Many people really miss having a shared understanding of these customs and oddities.
In Iowa, leaving often shows how much its unique mix of kindness, simplicity, and local flavour shapes daily life. Many people are suddenly grateful for things they used to take for granted. This is proof that there is no place like home.
