Greater Des Moines Region Cost of Doing Business is 14.6% Below the National Average

GREATER DES MOINES, IA (Feb. 6, 2025) – The Greater Des Moines (DSM) region ranks among the most cost-effective places to do business in the U.S., placing in the top quarter of all metros for business affordability, according to new data from Moody’s Analytics.  

The latest Moody’s Analytics Cost of Doing Business Index shows that Greater Des Moines’ cost of doing business is 14.6% below the national average, which is the most competitive level the region has achieved since Moody’s began compiling the data in 1990. 

“When we are meeting with prospective businesses that are considering an expansion or relocation into our region, we are able to share many unique selling points for Greater Des Moines, including our affordability, quality of life amenities for their employees, our ability to work as one region with sites in rural, urban and suburban areas, and more,” said Stacie LoVan, Senior Vice President of Economic Development at the Greater Des Moines Partnership. “This data proves that Greater Des Moines is among the most competitive metro business environments in the country.” 

“Greater Des Moines’ affordability is one of the several factors shaping the region’s economic landscape,” said Tiffany Tauscheck, President & CEO of The Partnership. “As companies assess market conditions, a low cost of doing business plays a major role in site selection decisions. Comparison with peer metros show that the Greater Des Moines region stacks up as a smart choice in a competitive business climate and reinforces our economic strength as a 12-county region.” 

About the Greater Des Moines Partnership 

The Greater Des Moines Partnership is the economic and community development organization that serves 12 counties in Greater Des Moines (DSM), Iowa: Adair, Clarke, Dallas, Guthrie, Jasper, Madison, Mahaska, Marion, Marshall, Polk, Poweshiek and Warren. Together with more than 400 Investors and an Affiliate Chamber of Commerce network of more than 6,700 Regional Business Members, The Partnership drives economic growth and talent development to advance quality of life in DSM with one voice, one mission and as one region. Through innovation, strategic planning and global collaboration, The Partnership grows opportunity, helps create jobs and promotes DSM as the best place to build a business, a career and a future. Learn more at DSMpartnership.com.