Hidden Gems of Waverly, Iowa
By Chelsea Petersen, Executive Director, Waverly Chamber of Commerce & Main Street Waverly, Iowa has a way of surprising people. Visitors often arrive for a tournament, a college visit, or
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What is the Cedar Valley?
The Cedar Valley is a six-county region in northeast Iowa, known for its strong communities, diverse opportunities, and exceptional quality of life. It’s a place where businesses and individuals succeed and grow. You’ll find this region to be filled with vibrant communities, exciting activities and attractions, a strong local business community, and a low cost of living. The Cedar Valley is a amazing place to call home!
Compare Your Community
Did you know the Cedar Valley is 13.3% more affordable than the national average?!
Waterloo/Cedar Falls - Black Hawk County
A balanced blend of big‑city amenities and small‑town warmth, Black Hawk County hosts the Cedar Valley’s major hubs—Waterloo and Cedar Falls—while offering great schools, accessible healthcare, thriving businesses, and scenic trails to explore.
Bremer County
Centered around the inviting city of Waverly, Bremer County is a family-friendly community nestled along the Cedar River where peaceful living meets vibrant downtown charm, quality education, and endless outdoor leisure.
Buchanan County
With a relaxed rural feel just minutes from friendly neighbors and scenic trails, Buchanan County delivers a welcoming sense of community, career‑launching opportunities in local industries, and year‑round recreation along the Wapsipinicon River.
Butler County
Life in Butler County thrives at the intersection of small‑town hospitality and natural beauty—from paddling the Shell Rock River to cruising the Rolling Prairie Bike Trail—all anchored by a growing local economy and rich community traditions like the annual county fair.
Chickasaw County
In Chickasaw County, New Hampton offers dynamic cultural energy, scenic trails, and community‑focused celebrations like Heartland Days, all woven together with excellent schools, healthcare, and a genuine sense of connection.
Grundy County
Grundy County strikes a perfect chord between rural charm and progressive vitality—celebrated for its barn‑quilt heritage, revitalized downtowns, expanding trail networks, top-tier healthcare, and a community spirit rooted in both tradition and innovation.
What is
Live the Valley?
Live the Valley is your go-to resource for discovering why the Cedar Valley is an exceptional place to call home. We’re here to provide essential information about our area and a picture of what it looks like to live and work in this vibrant region.
So whether you’re looking to compare the cost of living, get a glimpse of the quality of life this area offers, or get connected to career opportunities here – we’re here to help you spend more time living!
Voices of the Valley
Meet the people shaping life in the Cedar Valley, and discover the places, opportunities, and experiences they love most.
Meet Kelsie Kunkle
Local Resident & Parent
Kelsie Kunkle, Cedar Falls resident and mom of four
“Community and connection are what make the Cedar Valley special.” With miles of bike trails, tight-knit neighborhoods and family-friendly activities, it’s the ideal place to raise a family. Whether it’s biking through Big Woods or chatting with local business owners, this will always be Kelsie’s home.
Meet Lamar
Arena Football Player
Lamar, player for Iowa Woo Arena Football
“The best part of living in Cedar Valley is the people.” From exciting football games to exploring the parks and Lost Island theme park, the Cedar Valley is a community that offers so much for families. Lamar loves being back in his hometown, where sports bring extra energy to the local scene.
Meet Amy Guenther
Entrepreneur & Photographer
Amy Guenther, owner of Sweet Little You Photography
“The Cedar Valley blends small-town charm with all the essentials.” Amy appreciates the great schools, easy access to shopping and the strong sense of community. Whether it’s walking to school with her kids or running her photography business on Main Street, downtown Cedar Falls.
A Voice of the Valley: Simon Campbell
“What we didn’t expect was how quickly this community would make us feel like we belonged here and that we had something to give.” Hi, my name is Simon Campbell,
Count Me In: A Local Response to a Statewide Talent Challenge
New research from the Common Sense Institute (CSI) confirms what many communities across Iowa have felt for years. Too many graduates are leaving the state, and the economic consequences are
New Hampton, Iowa: Best Kept Secrets
New Hampton may be small, but its charm runs deep. From locally loved restaurants and family-friendly attractions to peaceful nature escapes and unique shopping experiences, these best-kept secrets are what
A Voice of the Valley: Haley Hamm
“Somewhere between my first day of college and my first coffee run downtown, the Cedar Valley became home.” Hi, my name is Haley Hamm, and this is why I Live
Brrr-illiant Things to Do in Buchanan County
Winter in Buchanan County is full of charm, cozy spots, and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re looking to get outside, try something new, or enjoy a warm drink, there’s something for
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