Jobs & Economy in Council Bluffs

Council Bluffs' economy blends a real, modern technology anchor with historic railroad identity, casino gaming, and genuine Omaha-metro job-market integration.

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A real, modern technology anchor

Google's real data center has operated in Council Bluffs since 2007, driving more than $6.8 billion in Iowa investment and employing 900+ people onsite, alongside a real $2.1 billion in 2024 Iowa economic activity.

Casino gaming in real, current transition

Council Bluffs hosts three real, current casinos (Ameristar, Horseshoe, Harrah's), though Ameristar -- long Iowa's largest riverboat casino -- is real, currently transitioning to a permanent, land-based Hollywood Casino Council Bluffs facility.

Genuine Omaha-metro job-market access

Council Bluffs' real position across the Missouri River from Omaha provides genuine access to that larger metro's own job market, a real, distinct cross-state commuter relationship.

Key takeaways

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Last reviewed: 2026-08-27. Independent research; not financial, tax, or legal advice -- confirm current figures with a local professional before making a decision.