100 best places to live and launch

Population: 52,538
Pros: Central location, nearby universities
Con: Not much diversity

One way to tell when a city is becoming a business center: Workers begin to reverse-commute from the metropolitan hub.

West Des Moines is experiencing such a turnaround, says Shawn Mullins, the communications director at the Iowa Dept. of Economic Development. The city, which touts itself as "Iowa's Fastest Growing Community," benefits from excellent access to transportation - it's sandwiched between three interstate highways - and an educated work force.

Like many communities near Des Moines, West Des Moines is home to a number of financial services and professional-services businesses. But the city also fosters a growing number of retail and entertainment providers, in addition to local art galleries, aquatic centers, and golf courses. -Mina Kimes

Interactive map: West Des Moines, Iowa
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