Iowa is a state located in the Midwestern region of the United States. It experiences a climate like most Midwest states, which includes extremes of both heat and cold. Iowa is often known as the "Food Capital of the World", but Iowa's economy, culture, and landscape are diverse. Iowa's agricultural economy transitioned to a diversified economy of advanced manufacturing, processing, financial services, biotechnology, and green energy production. Des Moines is Iowa's capital and largest city. The state's population was estimated at 3,002,555 in 2008. Iowa has been listed as one of the safest states to live in.