The brain drain is particularly prevalent in Iowa, as each of its neighboring states has a higher retention rate, according to the Washington Post. When comparing college graduates produced in a state versus college graduates living in the state, Iowa falls negative, sitting at -34.2%
This statistic took the percentage of college graduates produced in Iowa against the percentage of college graduates living in Iowa, meaning that Iowa is losing over 34% of the college graduates produced in the state.
This phenomenon happens for various reasons, including less interest in rural communities, lower-paying jobs, lack of opportunities and fewer amenities and attractions, amongst others.
Read more from Iowa State Daily.
