A Family’s Financial Freedom Found in Iowa

When Juan Navarro and his wife Hannah looked to settle down, they wanted a location that would allow them to reach their financial goals of purchasing a home, adopting a puppy and starting a family. After considering California, Colorado and Wisconsin, they decided that Iowa met all of their criteria. 

“We wanted to start a family as soon as possible, and we knew Iowa was the best place as far as the cost of living, the housing market, that whole realm of life,” said Navarro. He examined the basic factors of getting groceries, driving to work and realized, “I wouldn’t be able to put a lot of money in the savings account if we chose one of those other locations.” 

Living in Ames grants Navarro’s family a secure and stable financial life, allowing him to focus on the things that matter most.

Juan Navarro holding his child


“When my baby girl was born, I felt completely comfortable knowing that the only thing I had to worry about was her health and my wife’s health,” said Navarro. “I’ve been able to plan for my daughter’s life from the beginning; I’ve been able to save so much.”

Navarro not only experiences the freedom of financial peace, but he spends more time with his family and less time on the road with his easy commute to work in Boone. Also, downtown Ames is only a short drive away where he and his wife can enjoy a night out. 

“We normally like to go to one of our favorite restaurants. There’s really a variety,” said Navarro. “We can go bowling, play pool or go to an arcade bar. There’s definitely a lot of fun activities. It’s hard to do them all.” 

Cooking on the grill

For Navarro and his wife, living in Iowa allows them to focus on the things they value most – financial peace, wellness and family time. As he watches his daughter grow up, Navarro feels deep gratitude to pursue his ideal life without many obstacles. “I can’t think we would be where we are today without living in Iowa.”

Published May 6, 2022

Additional Stories

The best move you’ll ever make

The life you’ve always wanted is in Iowa. What better time than now to start living it?

Connect with an Iowan