Mason City
Located just a short drive south of the Iowa-Minnesota border, Mason City is North Central Iowa’s hub for shopping, dining, entertainment, recreation and much more. Residents enjoy a small-town atmosphere — with low crime rate, top-tier school system, affordable housing and amenities — without sacrificing their quality of life.
Mason City’s diverse local economy is fueled by a variety of industries and offers career options in food processing, healthcare, transportation, advanced manufacturing and technology, just to name a few. Strong neighborhoods, a rich architectural heritage, an energetic local culture and ample employment opportunities make Mason City a worthwhile option for your next move.
Fast Facts
- Population: 27,338
- 140 miles south of St. Paul, Minn.
- #2 in Affordability (Cost of Living Index Report, 2018)
- Top 100 Places with the Lowest Cost of Living in Iowa (Niche, 2021)
- Top 100 Best Places to Retire in Iowa (Niche, 2021)
- Top 100 Most Diverse Places to Live in Iowa (Niche, 2021)
Mason City's Favorite Son
Transport yourself into the hit film “The Music Man” by touring the 1912 “River City” indoor streetscape, recreated from the movie’s set design.” In the center of the square, find the Meredith Willson Museum celebrating the life and achievements of Mason City’s favorite musical son.
An Ode to Frank Lloyd Wright
Frank Lloyd Wright was chosen as the architect for the new bank and hotel in Mason City, now known as the Historic Park Inn Hotel. While in Mason City, Dr. G.C. Stockman commissioned Wright to design a residential home for his family, now known as the Frank Lloyd Wright Stockman House. It was Wright’s first and only Prairie School style house designed in Iowa.
Happy and Healthy
Recognized for its efforts to improve the physical, social and emotional well-being of Iowans, Mason City received the 2018 Healthy Hometown Community Award. Recreational highlights include the Farmers’ Market, community gardens, bike share program, playground improvements, River City Sculptures on Parade and new bike paths/walking trails.
