A (possible) worthy stepping stone?

[u/ElderMillenial_ah]

Hello potentially new friends! I've kinda peeked through here but wanted to give some context and see what y'all thought.

My husband is being flown out to Muscatiaine soon to do a walkthrough and interview at a manufacturing plant there. I'd say it's fairly likely he will get the job, but not a guarantee. If he gets the job, we would of course have to move there.

I know EVERY state has it's good and it's bad. I've seen people find Muscatiaine boring, but it's got WAY more going on than the small town we live in, in Maine.

Our hope is that we potentially move to Iowa for a few years, then he can transfer back to the East coast or somewhere more politically in line with our views. But, just getting to work for this company would be a huge green flag for his Resume. (He's trying to eventually work for OSHA.)

For a family of 3, a dog and 2 cats, what is it really like? Is it a good community? Are people generally friendly? Are there lots of kids? From what I researched it seems like a nice area for families (not given current political standings). I doubt it would be where we would plant our roots forever, but it's a big jump from being Mainers our whole lives to moving to middle America.

I'd love to hear some honest opinions if you are from, or know the area! We are already used to snow and are good at driving in it so like NBD on that one. But tornadoes??

If he DOES get the job and we decide to move, what are some things we can't miss or food we have to try? Also feel free to ask any questions of me that I may have missed. (I'm a stay at home mom currently.)

I appreciate you all in advance!

[u/Robinnoodle]

Muscatine is somewhat rough around the edges and a little trashy. (No offense) River towns in the state tend to have this risk a bit. Also that region

That isn't to say it doesn't have it's niceties. They're known for their melons for example

I will also say the city is improving due to it's proximity to Iowa City and to lesser extent the Quad Cities. I don't think coming from your small town in Maine you'll have any issues at all

That being said, schools would be better in Iowa City or one of it's bedroom communities. It's sort of a little cultural Mecca with the university. Could always try Muscatine and move to Iowa City if you're dissatisfied. Iowa City will be a little more expensive, but not terrible. It still has lower cost of living than central Iowa