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Our Focus is on the Facts

We believe sound fiscal and economic research is essential to uphold Iowa's economic vitality, future, and individual opportunity. 


Our Mission

It's Just Common Sense.

Common Sense Institute is a non-partisan research organization dedicated to the protection and promotion of Iowa's economy. CSI is at the forefront of important discussions concerning the future of free enterprise in Iowa and aims to have an impact on the issues that matter most to Iowan's.

 

Research
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Jobs & Our Economy
Inflation Misery Index

Losing income can make you poorer, and rising prices can make you poorer. Thanks to surging inflation since the pandemic, Iowans are poorer today in real terms than they were at the height of the Great Rece

October 09, 2024 Zachary MilneBen Murrey
Healthcare
Iowa’s Healthcare Landscape

The United States boasts the largest healthcare economy in the world. In 2022, health spending reached $4.5 trillion nationally, or over 17% of GDP.

Jobs & Our Economy
Economic Impact of the Iowa State Fair 2024

Held from August 8-18, 2024, the Iowa State Fair welcomed 1,182,682 attendees this year, the most in its 170-year history.

Housing & Our Community
Iowa in the Context of America's Fentanyl Epidemic

Fentanyl-related overdose deaths cost Iowa $3.5 billion in 2023, up from approximately $1.3 billion in 2018.

June 26, 2024 Ben Murrey
Jobs & Our Economy
Caitlin Clarkonomics and the Impact on Iowa featuring Ben Murrey

Our recent study, Clarkonomics, is not the first to explore the economics of Clark’s superstardom, but it takes a unique approach.

April 03, 2024 Ben Murrey
Announcing the Launch of CSI Iowa featuring Joe Murphy and Ben Murrey

To discuss the launch of CSI Iowa, Host Earl Wright is joined by Joe Murphy, President of the Iowa Business Council and the inaugural CSI Iowa Board Chair, and Ben Murrey, CSI Iowa Director of Policy & Rese

February 22, 2024 Ben Murrey