Abundance Ecovillage is a small, friendly community in Iowa, with 14 houses either built or under construction. It relies on a wind turbine and solar panels for electricity and is self-sufficient for water. Its part of a burgeoning trend all over America.

The infrastructure was already in place when Stacey Hurlin and her husband bought their house and moved in. There was just one catch: a $35,000 one-time fee that covered utility maintenance for her 950-square-foot, $115,000 home and various community projects.

Hurlin doesn’t regret the decision. “It’s remarkable how little we’ve had to compromise our lifestyle to live here,” said Hurlin. “I can’t say I’m living a sparse life. … It’s a lovely home.”

Developer Lonnie Gamble said filtered rainwater and a pond provide water for the community, while a constructed wetland uses plants to break down and clean the sewage.