The area is highly industrialized, specializing in the manufacture of munitions for the U.S. Army, farm implements, and rolled aluminum. Despite continued intense urbanization of the community, towns in the surrounding counties are largely agriculturally-oriented with some of the most productive farm land in the country located nearby. Hog and cattle production rank near the top nationwide. There are three daily newspapers, three television stations plus cable television, and several AM and FM radio stations. There are good hospitals on both sides of the river.
Churches are available for nearly all denominations.
Motel accommodations are available within a short distance of the airport. Rates depend on size and quality of the room, and are comparable to other Midwest urban areas. Quality accommodations at or below existing government per diem rates are easy to find. The climate of southeast Iowa and northwest Illinois is continental in character, featuring strong seasonal contrasts and sharp daily changes. Winters are cold and dry while summers are warm and humid.