Discover the Charm of Mount Vernon, Iowa: A Small Town with Big Heart

Mount Vernon, Iowa, might be small in size, but it's mighty in spirit and community warmth. This idyllic town is where tradition meets innovation, creating a vibrant backdrop for both families and individuals to thrive. Located along the historic Lincoln Highway, Mount Vernon presents a delightful blend of history and modern convenience.

At the heart of Mount Vernon is its lively Main Street, bustling with unique shops, delightful eateries, and friendly faces. The local businesses are not just shops; they're cherished parts of the community. Here, patrons feel more like family than customers. The arts scene is particularly robust, with Cornell College adding a youthful and intellectual flair, and a range of cultural events and festivals that animate the town throughout the year.

Nature lovers will find solace in Mount Vernon’s picturesque landscapes, with numerous parks and the beautiful Palisades-Kepler State Park nearby. These spaces offer endless opportunities for outdoor activities, from hiking and biking to tranquil picnics.

Education holds a highly esteemed place in Mount Vernon, with excellent schools and a community that values lifelong learning. The town’s encouraging environment and friendly vibes make it a nurturing place for both young minds and seasoned learners.

Mount Vernon, Iowa, truly is a hidden gem—a place where everyone knows your name, collaboration is a constant, and the community spirit is as hearty as the rolling hills that surround it.

Workforce & Industrial Development

Nestled in eastern Iowa, Mount Vernon offers a strategic location for industrial and commercial investment, blending small-town charm with access to key regional markets. The city sits near major transportation corridors, including U.S. Highway 30 and Interstate 380, providing efficient routes to Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, and the broader Midwest. This connectivity supports a range of industries, from advanced manufacturing to distribution and agribusiness.

Mount Vernon is actively working to expand its business infrastructure, with the Mount Vernon-Lisbon Community Development Group and city officials collaborating to attract new employers and support existing ones. The area features shovel-ready sites and business parks designed to accommodate both light industrial and logistics operations, with utilities and broadband infrastructure in place.

Iowa’s robust workforce development programs, such as those offered by Iowa Workforce Development and Kirkwood Community College, ensure local businesses have access to skilled labor. Customized training and apprenticeship programs are available to help employers upskill workers in advanced manufacturing, technology, and logistics sectors.

Incentives at both the state and local levels—ranging from tax credits to infrastructure grants—are available to qualifying businesses. The Iowa Economic Development Authority offers programs like the High Quality Jobs Program, while the City of Mount Vernon provides additional support for site development and expansion.