Iowa Business Council Survey Finds Steady Economic Optimism

October 7, 2026 - 23:31

The Iowa Business Council has published its third quarter Economic Outlook Survey, which measures expectations for the state's economy over the next six months. IBC President Joe Murphy explained that the results are calculated on a 100 point scale.

"Our overall survey score was 64.91 index points, so just under 65 points, relatively flat, virtually no movement on the overall score," Murphy said.

The reading suggests that business leaders across Iowa remain cautiously positive about the months ahead, even though the number changed little from the previous quarter. A score above 50 generally indicates expansion rather than contraction, so the latest figure points to continued, if modest, growth rather than a sharp swing in either direction.

The survey draws on input from major employers throughout the state and is watched closely as an early signal of hiring plans, capital spending, and broader confidence. Murphy noted that the stability in the index reflects a wait and see approach among executives as they weigh national economic trends, interest rates, and workforce availability against local demand.

Iowa's mix of manufacturing, agriculture, insurance, and finance gives the state a diversified base, which helps explain why sentiment has not dropped sharply despite uncertainty elsewhere. The council plans to release updated figures next quarter, when members will see whether the flat reading turns into a clearer trend.