Moving? Part 2 – Is Cedar Valley a Good Fit For You?
Sue
August 27th, 2023
Working and Playing in the Cedar ValleyWhat might you expect when you join the 250,000 residents of the Cedar Valley? In Part 2 of this series, we look at the job opportunities and leisure activities.
Join a Vibrant Business CommunityThe Cedar Valley (Waterloo, Cedar Falls, and surrounding areas) attracts a dynamic workforce in the areas of healthcare, education, manufacturing, and food/beverage. Agriculture is at the root of Cedar Valley’s history. John Deere Tractor Works is one of the major employers. Small businesses also dot the landscape including a strong tech sector. Cedar Falls Utilities powers innovation with 10 gigabit internet service citywide. Whether you want to advance your career or pay your way through college, you will find a variety of opportunities.The top 10 employers in the Cedar Valley are John Deere, Unity Point Health, Tyson Fresh Meats, Mercy One Medical Center, Waterloo Community Schools, University of Northern Iowa, Target Distribution Center, VGM, HyVee Food Stores, and Western Home Communities (senior living). Visit www.growcedarvalley.com to learn more.According to Iowa Workforce Development; U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Cedar Valley has a 3.1 percent unemployment rate with a median hourly wage of $19 and a median annual salary of $66,500.
Play in the Cedar ValleyIf you can’t wait to hop on your bike or lace up your walking shoes and hit the trails, you will definitely want to explore 128 miles of hard-surface trails. Get even closer to nature by walking or jogging on soft trails. All trails are available year-round for biking, hiking, and snow skiing.
You will be struck by the beauty and diversity of the Valley’s natural surroundings. Cedar Falls, often called the Garden City, is located on the Cedar River. The river and several lakes provide recreation for any water enthusiast, whether you kayak, boat, ski, fish, or just enjoy being around water. Riverfront improvements are in the works. The project includes an art plaza, new “put in” and “take out” locations for small watercrafts. A series of jetties will create waves and pools for water recreation enthusiasts and anglers. Or, enjoy a refreshing dip into one of the swimming pools located throughout the Cedar Valley. When the snow flies, indoor pools are a great option.You’ll never hear the word “boring” from your kiddos when you surprise them with a visit to Lost Island Theme Park and Water Park in Waterloo. This thrilling adventure park was voted one of USA Today’s 10 Best Outdoor Waterparks. And, for a unique family experience, hoof it on over to Hansen Dairy Farm in Hudson. Learn about dairy farming, milk the cows, pet the kangaroos, and gobble up fresh handmade ice cream. Conveniently located just minutes from Cedar Falls.Look to our family-friendly city parks for your next picnic or for play time on the swings. Bess Streeter Aldrich Park in Cedar Falls features multiple slides with a small rock-climbing wall, a zip line, and a generation swing that allows adults to sit facing an infant for better security.For all you golfers, you can practice your drive or tee off at one of several 18-hole golf courses in the area.The combination of small-town living and excellent education opportunities make Cedar Falls a great choice for families and students. Prairie Life Storage is ready to help with your moving needs. Contact Jocee at 319-260-2275 or visit the website at https://www.prairielifestorage.com/contact-us
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