U.S. News and World Report named Iowa No. 1 in its new Best States rankings, noting the state’s education and quality of life while also laying out challenges with business climate, workforce and an aging population. 

Gov. Kim Reynolds appeared on “CBS This Morning” to discuss the ranking. “Iowa truly is a place where if you work hard, dream big, anything is possible,” she said. “I think if we have a talent pipeline ready to meet the needs and we’re providing opportunities for Iowans in our state to really have a great quality of life, that’s how we’re going to succeed and continue to stay on top.” 

Iowa ranked in the top 10 for infrastructure (No. 1), health care, education, opportunity  and quality of life.

But weaknesses showed in a No. 46 ranking for business environment, No. 36 in growth of the young population, No. 38 in venture capital investment and No. 45 in entrepreneurship.

The Midwest fared well in this year’s rankings, with Minnesota No. 2, North Dakota No. 4 and Nebraska No. 7.