Discover the Gem of St. Ansgar, Iowa: A Community with Heart and Heritage

Welcome to St. Ansgar, Iowa, a vibrant town that masterfully blends small-town charm with a rich tapestry of cultural heritage. Proud of its roots yet progressive in spirit, St. Ansgar offers a genuinely warm and inviting environment for residents and visitors alike.

At the heart of St. Ansgar is its community, where a strong sense of togetherness and welcoming spirit are palpable. Whether it’s taking part in local events like the Strawberry Festival, attending a game at the vibrant sports fields, or joining any of the community clubs, there’s always something to bring people together.

The town’s natural beauty is captured in its scenic parks and serene trails, which offer endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to explore and unwind. The Cedar River flows gracefully nearby, providing a perfect backdrop for fishing, paddling, or simply enjoying a picnic with loved ones.

Education thrives in this dedicated community, with schools that are not only committed to academic excellence but also to fostering a nurturing environment for future leaders. The presence of local businesses, from charming shops to cozy eateries, adds to the town’s liveliness and reflects the creativity and resilience of its residents.

Living in St. Ansgar means embracing a life where values meet vibrancy, and every person is a valued part of the tapestry. Discover a place where you’re not just living but truly belonging.

Workforce & Industrial Development

Located in north-central Iowa near the Minnesota border, St. Ansgar offers a strategic location for manufacturers, logistics providers, and agri-businesses seeking access to both regional and Midwest markets. The city benefits from proximity to major highways such as U.S. Highway 218 and Iowa Highway 105, connecting businesses to larger hubs like Mason City and Rochester, MN.

Industrial and commercial development in St. Ansgar is supported by available land within the St. Ansgar Industrial Park, which provides shovel-ready sites and essential infrastructure. The city and Mitchell County have worked to streamline permitting and offer competitive utility rates, making it easier for new and expanding businesses to establish operations.

Workforce development is a key focus, with area employers drawing from a stable labor pool in Mitchell County and surrounding regions. North Iowa Area Community College (NIACC) partners with local businesses to deliver customized training and upskilling programs tailored to advanced manufacturing, logistics, and agricultural technology.

Iowa’s robust incentives landscape includes programs such as the High Quality Jobs Program (HQJP) and tax credits for investment and job creation. Mitchell County Economic Development Commission (MCEDC) also offers local incentives and site selection assistance for qualifying projects, ensuring that St. Ansgar remains a competitive choice for industrial growth.