Cumming is going to be central Iowa's next hip town

Even though it's right next to Des Moines, let's face it — you've probably never heard of the town Cumming.

But Mayor Tom Becker is banking on the 500-person town being central Iowa's next 'it' destination.

• "We're going to be the next Waukee," Becker told Axios.

Why it matters: Des Moines is growing at a pace that's faster than the national average and we're seeing tremendous residential development, especially in suburban areas that aren't landlocked.

• Cumming is nestled perfectly between Norwalk and West Des Moines and developers see its acres of undeveloped farmland as an opportunity to grow.

State of play:

• Within 10 years, Cumming's population is expected to quadruple to 2,000+ people once its "agrihood" is developed — a neighborhood with enough space for people to raise produce and animals.
• The Home Show Expo, one of Des Moines' largest annual home and renovation events, is based in Cumming this year.
• Like other rural towns, the agricultural-based community has seen stores, gas stations and banks close over the decades. But its population grew from around 300 in 2010 to 500 in 2020, Becker said.

What they're saying: Becker admits some of the residents who chose to live in Cumming are the type that "don't want friends."

• But that will have to change, especially as the area draws residents who like the close vicinity to I-80 and the metro.

Our take: Cumming has become one of our favorite spots to visit, especially on our bikes (which by the way, the Great Western Trail is also expanding).

• It's a five-minute drive from The Chicken, which serves the best chicken tenders.
• It's 12 minutes from Trader Joe's, which is 10/10.
• 👀 It's home to Cumming Tap, one of the best bars in the region and these koozies.