BCEDC provides expert guidance and full support to site selection professionals, helping evaluate opportunities and identify ideal sites, buildings, and incentives. With a proactive, strategic approach, we help projects move forward efficiently. Equally committed to existing industry, BCEDC supports the industrial and commercial base that anchors Buchanan County, strengthening the businesses that make the county a home for long-term success and growth.
An efficient, connected, and reliable transportation network is essential for supporting business growth, industrial expansion, and long-term economic vitality. Buchanan County is uniquely positioned with a combination of major highways, rail service, and air access that allows companies to move people, products, and materials with ease.
The county is anchored by key four-lane corridors, including U.S. Highway 20 and the Avenue of the Saints (I-380), which provide fast east-west and north-south mobility across the Midwest. Iowa Highway 150 further strengthens local and regional access for workforce, suppliers, and customers.
Rail users benefit from service by both the Canadian National Railroad and the Iowa Northern Railroad, offering reliable freight options for agriculture, manufacturing, and distribution. Air travel and air cargo needs are supported by two nearby commercial airports—the Eastern Iowa Airport in Cedar Rapids and the Waterloo Regional Airport—along with Buchanan County’s own full-service municipal airport, capable of accommodating small jet traffic for business travelers and corporate fleets.
For water transportation, barge access at the Port of Dubuque is just 72 miles away, expanding logistics options for bulk commodities. Strategically located in America’s heartland, Buchanan County provides direct access to 23% of the U.S. population within 500 miles, giving businesses a strong competitive advantage.
Laborished Study
Laborshed Study 2025
In 2025, BCEDC and Cedar Valley Regional Partnership in partnership with Iowa Workforce Development, completed a Laborshed Study. It defines the area from which Buchanan County draws its workforce, using employee ZIP code data from local employers to map commuting patterns and workforce characteristics.
This study identifies workforce availability, commuting patterns, and skill sets. With this data the county can attract new businesses, support existing employers, and guide workforce training efforts. It strengthens the county’s ability to compete for investment and plan strategically for growth.
Information generated from the Laborshed study includes:
Estimated # of individuals very likely/somewhat likely to change or accept employment in Buchanan County.
Employment info by industry sectors: wage data, number employed, etc.
Employment status: employed/unemployed, homemakers or retired.
Commuting patterns.
Benefits and education levels.
How people seek employment and how companies can best target employees
Reports
The Iowa Workforce Development Laborshed Studies website offers interactive and executive summaries for various cities or regions.
Buchanan County || The city of Independence is chosen as information for the studies based on the most centralized city of the county.
Buchanan County is a great location for businesses and industries, their employees and their families. This part of the Cedar Valley Region houses a population of over 20,000 people and has a potential labor force of over 209,000 workers from a six-county area.
The Buchanan County manufacturing sector continues to expand. This sector has grown over the past few years with local industries continuing to expand both their physical plants as well as adding additional employees. These local industries have rich ties to their community and see them as a positive place to do business as they continue to grow right here in Buchanan County.
Many opportunities await both employers and those seeking employment within the Buchanan County, Iowa area. These opportunities, partnered with a highly educated and motivated workforce, have attracted Fortune 500 companies such as Tyson to locate operations in Buchanan County as well.
In Buchanan County, the average hourly wage across all industries in 2019 was $20.80/hour. In the highest employment sector, manufacturing, the average wage is $16.32/hour with a welder with experience on average making $20.46/hour and an assembler making on average $17.03/hour.
Quick Look at Buchanan County
Employees
640
Employers with 150+ Employees
8
Per Capita Income
$31,495
Median Household Income
$61,409
Mean Household Income
$79,904
Average Wage Per Job
$32,895
Median Age
38.7 years
High School Graduation Rate
94.1%
Some College
20.9%
Degree
20.6%
Advanced Degree
5.6%
Education Based on Ages 25-64
Total
In Labor Force
Employed
Unemployment Rate
Population 25-64
11,500
82.9%
80.3%
2.6%
High School Graduate (includes equivalency)
4,188
83.4%
80.9%
2.5%
Some college or Associate’s Degree
3,730
83.3%
80.5%
2.7%
Bachelor’s Degree or Higher
2,055
88.7%
87.8%
0.9%
Incentives
Key Incentives
Buchanan County offers an array of business incentives, including state tax benefits, revolving loan funds, Tax Increment Financing (TIF), property tax relief, and infrastructure improvements. Through key partnerships with state and regional entities, local leaders collaborate to create competitive incentive packages that support employer attraction and long-term, sustainable economic growth.
Local Incentives
Buchanan County Economic Development offers low-interest revolving loans to provide gap financing to assist with new and expanding business needs. Funds are based on job creation, wages and private investment. All loans are made at 3% interest over 5 years with a 6-month non-accrual of interest and first payment not due until 9 months in and quarterly thereafter.
Buchanan County Economic Development offers a Buchanan County only KEY Business Grant to businesses located in Buchanan County. This grant is a reimbursable grant for up to $10,000 for a key or unique business in a Buchanan County community. Certain requirements need to be met to qualify for this grant, these can be found in the KEY Business Grant Guidelines.
The Cedar Valley Region offers a variety of tools to help new and expanding businesses make effective decisions on financing and cost savings of their project. These tools not only include loan programs but may include tax incentives, special building and site pricing, direct financial assistance and more.
Tax Increment Financing (TIF) || City councils or boards of supervisors may use new property taxes resulting from the increase in taxable valuation caused by the construction of new industrial or commercial facilities to provide economic development incentives to a business. TIF Basic explanation.
Local Tax Abatement || Iowa law allows cities and counties to abate local property taxes for value added to industrial and commercial real estate.
Direct Financial Assistance || Communities and utilities have access to a variety of local and regional business growth incentive tools including revolving loan funds and local development corporation funds.
CIRAS || Iowa State University Center for Industrial Research and Service
Our state offers a comfortable corporate income tax based on total in-state sales revenue, no property, sales or use tax on industrial machinery and equipment, no personal property (inventory) tax, and no sales and use tax.
Iowa is also investing heavily in job training and education through the Future Ready Iowa.
The BCED offers low-interest revolving loans to provide gap financing to assist with your expansion needs. Funds are based on job creation, wages and private investment. All loans made at 3% interest with a 6-month delay in repaying the loan and interest accumulation.
In addition to the revolving loan funds listed above, BCEDC offers a Key-Business Grant. An economic development tool to assist Buchanan County communities in attracting and keeping key businesses.
The Cedar Valley Region offers a variety of tools to help new and expanding businesses make effective decisions on financing and cost savings of their project. These tools not only include loan programs but may include tax incentives, special building and site pricing, direct financial assistance and more.
Tax Increment Financing (TIF) City councils or boards of supervisors may use new property taxes resulting from the increase in taxable valuation caused by the construction of new industrial or commercial facilities to provide economic development incentives to a business.
Local Tax Abatement Iowa law allows cities and counties to abate local property taxes for value added to industrial and commercial real estate.
Direct Financial Assistance Communities and utilities have access to a variety of local and regional business growth incentive tools including revolving loan funds and local development corporation funds.
CIRAS Iowa State University Center for Industrial Research and Service
State Incentives
The State of Iowa was ranked as the 9th best state in the US for doing business in 2016. Iowa was also noted as having the 2nd lowest business costs in the nation. (CNBC)
Our state offers a comfortable corporate income tax based on total in-state sales revenue, no property, sales or use tax on industrial machinery and equipment, no personal property (inventory) tax, and no sales and use tax.
Iowa is also investing heavily in job training and education through the Future Ready Iowa.
Buchanan County offers an exceptional balance of community living and economic opportunity, making it a standout destination in the Cedar Valley Region. Its strong industrial, agricultural, commercial, and retail sectors create a stable foundation for growth, supported by a dedicated and highly capable workforce. Families benefit from a cost of living below the national average, while businesses gain from a location designed for long-term success. With vibrant communities, accessible amenities, and a quality of life that blends rural charm with modern convenience, Buchanan County is a place where individuals can build meaningful futures and organizations can confidently invest and expand.
Buchanan County, Iowa is best described as a collection of welcoming bedroom communities supported by a strong industrial, commercial, and retail foundation. This balance creates an environment where families thrive and businesses find the workforce and stability they need to grow. With a diverse mix of small-town charm and forward-looking development, the county continues to attract new investments and entrepreneurial opportunities.
Located within the scenic Cedar Valley Region, Buchanan County offers residents and visitors a quality of life defined by safety, access, and connection. Its communities are known for their hospitality, well-maintained amenities, and genuine sense of pride. Modern infrastructure, excellent schools, community services, and a wide range of recreational and cultural assets further enhance its appeal.
Whether you’re considering a place to live, work, or build, Buchanan County delivers rural beauty blended seamlessly with modern convenience. Explore what this region has to offer, and discover a place that feels like home.
95% of Our Residents Own a High School Diploma or Higher
Buchanan County, Iowa is not only the location for expanding business, local school districts are also expanding educational facilities and resources to give local students quality education to fuel a prosperous future. Buchanan County schools and their educators are forward thinkers and participate in many opportunities to tie education to the workforce such as participating in the Iowa STEM Externship program and Future Ready Iowa initiatives including Apprenticeship and Pre-Apprenticeship programs.
The Hawkeye Community College Center which is located in the Independence Junior/Senior High School is continually expanding the classes they offer for college credit to area high school students. These are offered along with business and community education courses for local residents including welding and CNC Machining training. Besides Hawkeye Community College there are seven additional higher education institutions, with two of these being state universities. The University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls and the University of Iowa in Iowa City, within a 30-60 minute drive of the county seat, Independence.
At the PK-12 education level, Buchanan County houses sections of eight school districts with modernized facilities so the children of the communities can prepare for their futures effectively. The county is also served by religious-based parochial schools. Each school district is continually striving to create programs that will contribute to the students’ future endeavors by preparing them for their professional lives.
Buchanan County Health Center (BCHC), a critical access hospital, located in Independence, Iowa, serves as the primary healthcare hub for residents throughout Buchanan County and the surrounding region. As a designated critical access hospital, BCHC plays a vital role in providing high-quality, accessible medical care close to home. Its recently completed 74,000-square-foot expansion reflects a strong commitment to meeting the evolving health and wellness needs of the community. The upgraded facilities include state-of-the-art surgical suites, expanded outpatient services, modernized clinical areas, and enhanced patient spaces designed for comfort, safety, and efficiency.
BCHC offers an impressive array of services, featuring 20 clinical specialties and 19 medical specialties, ensuring broad coverage for individuals and families at every stage of life. The campus also includes a comprehensive wellness center with an indoor lap pool, a long-term care facility, and a full retirement community—positioning BCHC as a true continuum-of-care provider. With more than 225 full- and part-time employees, the health center delivers exceptional, personalized service supported by experienced medical professionals.
Its central location makes BCHC the most convenient healthcare option in the county, with additional clinics operating in multiple Buchanan County communities. For advanced or specialized care, major medical centers in Waterloo, Cedar Rapids, and Iowa City are just a short drive away, ensuring residents have seamless access to broader regional resources.
Housing
8/10 of Our Residents Own Homes
Buchanan County’s housing landscape reflects steady growth, rising demand, and expanding opportunities for residents and employers. New construction has increased, and home values continue to trend upward while remaining affordable compared to larger metro areas. Rental availability has tightened, highlighting the need for additional workforce and senior housing options. This housing stability is vital for economic development, as communities with diverse, attainable housing attract workers, support business expansion, and strengthen local competitiveness.
By addressing current gaps and planning for future needs, Buchanan County will ensure that its growing workforce has the quality housing necessary to live, work, and invest locally.
Housing is an important resource for all communities. In 2022, Buchanan County Economic Development Commission (BCEDC) along with the communities of Buchanan County commissioned a housing study through Iowa Northland Regional Council of Governments (INRCOG). This study identified the specific housing needs of each community and provides a plan as well as Financial Programs and Funding Resources to help meet these housing needs. The study was completed in April of 2024.
This study was conducted using the collection of data from a variety of sources. The data illustrate both the historic and current housing conditions in Buchanan County. Using this data, historic trends were identified and forecasts were developed to project the anticipated housing demand of the county. overview of the entire study. Please see below for the housing study results for each community.
A study of this magnitude must take much into consideration to be able to provide an accurate picture of what has happened, what is happening now and what will need to happen in the future regarding the housing sector of Buchanan County. Please see below for the reports that show the methodology used in each of the following areas: Physical Attributes, Population & Demographics, Economic Considerations, Housing Characteristics, and Household & Housing Projections.
This housing study was funded through Buchanan County Economic Development and grants from the USDA, the City of Independence and Mid-American Energy. Thank you for supporting the completion of this important study.
BCEDC leverages strong alliances with local, state, and national organizations, forging meaningful partnerships that fuel progress and opportunity. By solidifying these relationships, we bring exponential resources, expertise, and innovation to the table—driving economic growth and enriching the quality of life in Buchanan County and our region. Together, we’re building a brighter, more prosperous future where collaboration sparks success, businesses flourish, and communities thrive. At BCEDC, partnership is a primary catalyst for real and sustainable impact.
Events & Programs
Lunch & Learn
LEAD Buchanan Program
Unlock Your Leadership Potential
Mission: To inspire and prepare future leaders across Buchanan County.
Vision: To develop the skills of individuals in our communities through the areas of civic engagement, quality of life, workforce, and housing.
Become a Community Leader
As a participant, you will be equipped not only with leadership skills but also with a profound understanding of various services, opportunities, and stakeholders in Buchanan County. This includes working on real-world projects that have a direct impact on our community, creating a better future for all of us.
Why Choose the LEAD Buchanan Program? LEAD Buchanan offers a unique opportunity to connect with various organizations in the county. Participants will gain:
Leadership Development Build comprehensive leadership skills with a strong focus on community-based leadership and civic engagement.
Professional Networking Connect with peers, emerging leaders, and established professionals from a wide range of industries.
Community Engagement Engage directly with local clubs, groups, and organizations to better understand their impact and collaboration opportunities.
Expert Presenters Learn from exceptional presenters and facilitators who are leaders in the field of leadership and organizational development.
Insider Access Gain exclusive insights and behind-the-scenes experiences with organizations and initiatives across the county.
Program Fee: $250
Tuition includes materials, assessments, meals, refreshments, and other expenses associated with the program.
APPLICATION Applications must be submitted no later than January 31, 2026.
The mission of the Buchanan County Economic Development Commission is to foster a strong economic environment which supports our existing businesses, nurtures growth and new investment while attracting sustainable businesses and a quality labor force to our communities. The organization will rely on trusting relationships to unite the communities of Buchanan County to promote and facilitate economic development, and to improve the quality of life in our area by building sustainable wealth for those who live, work and play in this portion of the Cedar Valley Region of Iowa.
BCEDC serves the communities and unincorporated areas of Buchanan County, Iowa and is a resource and advocate for the building and growth of the industrial and commercial businesses that reside operations in Buchanan County. We were founded in 1995 and have a proud history of facilitating cooperative activities throughout Buchanan County.
The BCEDC’s focus is on attracting and expanding commercial and industrial businesses in the county area and maintaining and developing a complementing workforce and infrastructure. The role of the organization is not only to attract or retain jobs but more importantly to educate the communities they represent regarding the improvements necessary to be competitive and successful in today’s business economy.
The mission of the Buchanan County Economic Development Commission is to foster a strong economic environment which supports our existing businesses, nurtures growth and new investment while attracting sustainable businesses and a quality labor force to our communities. The organization will rely on trusting relationships to unite the communities of Buchanan County to promote and facilitate economic development, and to improve the quality of life in our area by building sustainable wealth for those who live, work and play in this portion of the Cedar Valley Region of Iowa.
BCEDC will improve the quality of life in our area and foster relationships for the economic advancement of businesses and their employees and support a high quality of life in our communities.
Objectives + Keys to Success
Our Primary Focus:
Workforce
Develop and implement a Workforce Development and Attraction Strategy focused on bringing workers to Buchanan County to fit the available jobs in our labor market.
Continue to increase awareness and utilization of business education and training opportunities for students, residents and business in order to build wealth for our economic sustainability.
Existing Business
Coordinate an official Existing Business Retention and Expansion program for local primary industry companies that helps establish and maintain trusting relationships. Relationships that can foster wealth building in the current economy for the business, it’s leaders, employees and the community it calls home.
Continue to steward and nurture open lines of communication with local primary industry companies to serve as a “local agent” for success to help their organization.
Community
Assist local governments in creating and establishing Local Economic Development Strategies that include guidelines, policies, goals and targets that can complement the role of the BCEDC as a partner in the building of wealth in the communities of Buchanan County.
Continue to maintain open communication with community leaders on the works of the BCEDC, including successes, challenges and objectives. This includes providing an annual report of the works of the organization each January.
Continue to assist local leaders with efforts to grow Quality of Life assets in our communities.
New Business
Develop and implement an affordable, effective and sustainable Marketing and Public Relations Strategy that complements the work of the Cedar Valley Regional Partnership, to promote business attraction and development in the Buchanan County and the Cedar Valley Region of Iowa.
Continue to develop the “tool box” of resources available to entrepreneurs and small businesses leaders to build business locally.
Continue to develop effective and trusting relationships with local governments and development groups to promote the development of available property for new and expanding business.
Organization
Create and implement a private business investment program to enhance the BCEDC budget to meet current and future objectives of the organization.
Revise and implement the BCEDC Revolving Loan fund as a sustainable tool for new and existing businesses to use for growing their business in Buchanan County.
Continue to provide continued education and networking opportunities to BCEDC staff and board members. This provides education on current trends in economic development to provide credibility to the function of the organization.
Continue to evaluate and refine the purpose and objective of the BCEDC in the local economy, and monitor the capacity of the organization’s scope.
Key Services
Key Services
BCEDC serves as a key facilitator in helping to grow wealth for communities, business and citizens of the county. A key “Concierge” for business and industry with a “Rolodex” of networked contacts that can be utilized to make connections to help businesses solve local problems in order to succeed in our communities while also watching the economic landscape for obstacles that would hinder a conducive environment for our partners to compete in business successfully.
Credit for success is not a priority for the BCEDC, the success for our communities and businesses is the number-one priority. Buchanan County Economic Development also markets the assets of Buchanan County that are necessary for successful economic development in the Cedar Valley Region of Iowa.
BCEDC also provides the following services to companies looking to grow their business in Buchanan County:
Research – compilation of information for Buchanan County and the Cedar Valley Region.
Consulting – confidential consulting services to assist companies in their assessment of the Buchanan County area as a location for business.
Loans – providing low interest loans to companies locating or expanding in Buchanan County through the Revolving Loan Fund program.
Incentive Packages – development of financial incentive packages utilizing incentives available from local communities, community based economic development organizations, the State of Iowa, and the United States Rural Development program through USDA.
