Quality of Life is Decorah's Advantage

Quality of Life has inched into the top spot in the U.S. that businesses now give for relocating.

That’s a big advantage for Decorah and Winneshiek County because the area offers a way of life that many people can only dream of. Midwest Living magazine says that Decorah is one of the top 100 small towns to visit in the Midwest. But for the people who live here, it’s definitely No. 1.

Young Professionals

Young professionals are beginning to call Decorah and Winneshiek County home because the area offers a scenic and intimate environment that is hip yet quaint.

It’s a great and safe place to be a kid, but it’s also fun for adults – with a culture that includes fun and funky restaurants, one-of-a-kind downtown shopping, museums and so much more.

“We wanted to live somewhere that fit our ethic,” said Jason Trout, a website marketing professional who lives in Decorah with his wife, Alicia, and two young children. The Trouts chose Decorah and Winneshiek County in part because of the kayaking, hiking, biking, coffee shops, the organic food co-op and numerous other cultural offerings.

Luther Connection

Luther grads Mark Lovelace and Lea Donhowe Lovelace returned to the area after living and working in downtown Chicago. “We were thrilled to see so many young professionals in Decorah. We love the fact there is a diverse culture of progressive, thinking people here. There is always something going on, either recreationally, culturally or with the kids. It may be a small town but our pace hasn’t slowed down at all.”

Moving Back

“It was an easy decision,” says Luther grad Ross Hadley about his family’s choice to move back to Decorah. “The quality of life here is incredible. Housing and education are affordable and it’s just a great place to raise kids. A lot of our friends have said they wish they could do it; we’re just glad we did.”

Retirement

As more and more retirees are discovering, Decorah is the perfect option. With its bustling downtown, accessible recreational trails and waterways, tons of entertainment options, as well as the amenities of Luther College, there’s always something to do. Additionally the area offers a wide array of housing and excellent health care choices.

Housing Options

From stately Victorian homes to convenient condominiums to custom construction, the Decorah real  estate market has something to fit everyone’s style and price range. Many home choices can be found or built within walking distance of downtown amenities, schools and businesses.

Exceptional Health Care

Decorah’s health care system provides quality care throughout the area. It includes two major medical clinics -- Decorah/Mayo Clinic and Gundersen Lutheran – as well as Winneshiek Medical Center, numerous chiropractic and dental clinics and rehabilitative and alternative medicine options.