A Jewel of Tranquility: Discover West Okoboji, Iowa

*West Okoboji, Iowa, is a delightful destination that offers both the charm of small-town living and the beauty of its stunning natural surroundings. Situated on the shores of West Okoboji Lake, part of the Iowa Great Lakes, the town boasts some of the clearest, bluest waters in the Midwest, making it a paradise for water enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.*

*Living in West Okoboji means immersing yourself in a serene environment where outdoor activities abound. The lake serves as a playground for boating, fishing, and watersports throughout the warmer months, while the picturesque landscapes provide perfect settings for hiking and biking. But it's not just about the great outdoors; the community here is vibrant and welcoming, with wonderfully friendly residents who are always ready to share a story or lend a helping hand.*

*The charm of West Okoboji is accentuated by its unique local shops, cozy cafes, and delightful eateries that offer a taste of quintessential Iowa hospitality. Seasonal events, from summer concerts to winter festivals, keep the calendar lively and ensure there's always something to look forward to. West Okoboji isn't just a place to live; it's a place to belong, where every day is met with scenic beauty and community spirit.*

Workforce & Industrial Development

Nestled in the heart of Iowa’s Great Lakes region, West Okoboji offers a unique blend of natural beauty and economic opportunity. While best known for its scenic lakes and tourism, the area is seeing increased interest from light manufacturing, logistics, and specialty food producers seeking to leverage its strategic location along U.S. Highway 71 and proximity to larger Midwest markets.

Industrial real estate in West Okoboji and the surrounding Dickinson County area remains competitively priced, with several shovel-ready sites and business parks available for development. Local leaders are actively working to diversify the economy beyond tourism, providing support for new and expanding businesses through the Iowa Lakes Corridor Development Corporation and county-level initiatives.

Workforce development is a regional priority, with Iowa Lakes Community College offering tailored training programs to meet employer needs in advanced manufacturing, agri-business, and logistics. Statewide, Iowa’s array of incentives—including the High Quality Jobs Program and workforce training grants—help reduce the cost of expansion or relocation. Local economic development offices also assist with site selection, permitting, and connections to state resources, making West Okoboji a promising destination for companies seeking a supportive, business-friendly environment.