With 17 area churches, a melting pot of cultures, and a history dating back to 1838, Harlan is a friendly, progressive community of 5,400 people, providing a high quality of life with an abundance of recreational and cultural activities.

Harlan has one of the state's finest volunteer fire departments and one of the lowest crime rates in Iowa for cities between 5,000 and 10,000 population.  The city is blessed with a strong street, utility and park infrastructure as well.

Located in West Central Iowa, Harlan is the seat of Shelby County government and a short drive on Interstate 80 from Omaha, NE and Des Moines, IA.