Discover the Charm of Manly, Iowa

Tucked away in the heart of Iowa, Manly offers a warm, welcoming escape from the hustle and bustle of big-city life. Known for its friendly community spirit, this delightful town embraces newcomers and longtime residents alike with open arms. The genuine hospitality of Manly’s residents instantly makes you feel at home, cultivating an inclusive atmosphere where everyone feels like family.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find Manly to be a hidden gem. The serene natural landscapes provide an ideal backdrop for leisurely strolls and revitalizing bike rides. The local parks offer a perfect setting for picnics, community events, or simply basking in the beauty of the great outdoors. Meanwhile, the town’s vibrant annual events, such as the beloved Railroad Ag Days, celebrate Manly’s rich heritage and draw people together in joyful festivity.

Manly’s charming main street, dotted with eclectic shops and cozy cafes, exudes small-town charm with a touch of modern flair. Local businesses thrive on creativity and neighborly connections, supporting each other and adding to the town's economic vitality. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or a community-oriented lifestyle, Manly, Iowa, harmoniously combines past and present, tradition and innovation, making it a wonderful place to call home.

Workforce & Industrial Development

Located in north-central Iowa, Manly is strategically positioned at the crossroads of U.S. Highway 65 and Iowa Highway 9, with direct rail access via the Iowa Northern Railway. This connectivity, paired with proximity to Interstate 35 and the Mason City Municipal Airport, makes Manly an attractive site for industrial and logistics operations seeking efficient regional and national distribution.

The city is home to the Manly Terminal, a major rail and transload facility that has spurred significant industrial development in the area. Industrial real estate in Manly benefits from competitive land and lease rates, with available sites suitable for warehousing, light manufacturing, and agribusiness. The city and Worth County actively support business growth through local incentives and infrastructure improvements tailored to industrial users.

Workforce development is a priority, with North Iowa Area Community College (NIACC) providing customized training and upskilling programs for area employers. Statewide initiatives like Iowa’s High Quality Jobs Program and Iowa New Jobs Training Program offer additional support for companies investing in new facilities or expanding their workforce in Manly.

Manly’s collaborative approach—linking city, county, and state resources—ensures that new and expanding businesses have access to the talent, incentives, and infrastructure needed for long-term success.