5 Reasons Why Iowa is the Best State for Pet Owners

From spacious outdoor adventures to affordable care, see why Iowa is the paw-fect place for pets

From wide-open spaces and dog-friendly parks to affordable living and lower costs, Iowa offers quality of life for pets and their people that’s best described as paws-itively purr-fect. And with our furry friends being just as much a part of the family as anyone else (66 percent of American households own a pet), their wellbeing is top of mind when considering a move. Fortunately, pets whose owners choose Iowa will find ample opportunities to explore, play and make lasting memories with their human counterparts (who will enjoy the same).

So why exactly is Iowa a pet’s (and pet owner’s) paradise? Let us count the wags – er – ways:

1. Room to Roam

Iowa’s natural beauty provides the ultimate playground for your furry friend. With stunning scenery and more than 253,000 acres of state and county park space to roam, each day brings a new adventure—whether you’re playing fetch in a field or exploring Iowa’s 2,000+ miles of trails together. From weekend hikes to lakeside strolls, Iowa is full of opportunities for you and your companion to get outside, stay active and create memories worth wagging about.

2. Home Sweet (Spacious) Home

Forget cramped apartments and tiny balconies. Whether you have an adventurous pooch or cat who prefers the comforts of home, Iowa’s housing costs – approximately 27 percent lower than the national average – make it easy to find a place where you and your pet have plenty room for high-energy zoomies and games of fetch. Here, your dog can have more room to sniff and chase the neighborhood squirrels and your cat will feel like queen of the castle, all without making a mess of your budget.

3. More Wags for Your Wallet

Caring for a pet shouldn’t break the bank, and in Iowa, it doesn’t have to. For instance, Iowa ranks as one of the least expensive states to own a dog, meaning your dollars go further when it comes to food, supplies and insurance. With these savings, you can afford that extra treat, a special toy or a pup cup (or two) to keep your furry friend happy and focus on making memories with your pet, knowing you’re in a place where both of you can live well for less.

4. Extra Minutes, Extra Memories

In Iowa, you’ll spend less time stuck in traffic and more time doing what you love—hanging out with your pet! With one of the shortest average commute times in the country, Iowa lets you enjoy more of your day before AND after your 9-to-5. How you spend that time is up to you: take an impromptu trip to one of Iowa’s incredible (and free) state parks, give your buddy an extra belly rub or just relax together in the backyard. Here, your free time is truly yours, and your best friend will love every second.

5. Paw-fect Adventures and Playdates

What’s a getaway without your best friend along for the ride? Iowa boasts a variety of cabins, bed and breakfasts and charming hotels that welcome four-legged guests. When it’s time to grab a bite, visit one of Iowa’s pet-friendly wineries, breweries and distilleries, where you can relax on the patio with a local pour in hand and your pup by your side. If your furry friend loves to chase, climb and make new friends, they’ll feel right at home in Iowa’s dog parks, which feature play structures, splash pads and plenty of space for play. Many parks also offer separate areas for large and small dogs, shady spots for rest and agility courses to keep your dog entertained and active. After a day of play, pamper your pooch at one of Iowa’s dog spas where they’ll enjoy a fresh cut, specialty treatments and lots of TLC.