Iowa is a good place to be. We have both rural and metropolitan areas so there is something for everyone. Yes, we have snow and cold, but it rarely keeps you in doors very long. We have wonderful outdoor sports for everyone one and age and we have all 4 seasons. We do have some hot, humid weather in July/August, but not for too long. I live in a University town so there is a lot of things going on, but the atmosphere is of small town as well (Ames, IA).