9 Charming Small Towns in Iowa You’ll Want to Call Home

If you’re thinking about moving to Iowa, bustling cities like Des Moines or Davenport might come to mind. However, this state has much more to offer. From quaint downtowns to festivals that bring the community together, Iowa’s small towns are perfect for anyone looking to experience what life is like in its quieter corners. In this Redfin article, we’ll discuss 9 charming small towns in Iowa, each with their own unique character and plenty of reasons to call home.

1. West Point, IA

Median Sale Price: $159,000
Homes for sale in West Point | Apartments for rent in West Point

West Point is charming small town located in southeastern Iowa. The town’s biggest event is the West Point Sweet Corn Festival, held every August, where locals enjoy free sweet corn, live music, parades, and tons of fair activities. West Point’s town square is home to the historic Lee County Courthouse, adding a touch of history to the small-town feel. On weekends, residents often gather at Pollmiller Park, a local favorite for fishing, picnicking, and hiking around the scenic lake.

2. Wayland, IA

Median Sale Price: $325,000
Homes for sale in Wayland | Apartments for rent in Wayland

Wayland is another town located in southeastern part of the state.  Every summer, Wayland hosts the annual Wayland Lions BBQ Days, where residents gather for mouthwatering barbecue, live music, and a chance to connect with neighbors. The town’s agricultural heritage is evident at the Wayland Farmers Market, where locals shop for fresh produce, baked goods, and homemade crafts. For outdoor adventures, people head to Crooked Creek Park, a favorite spot for hiking and picnics.

3. Danville, IA

Median Sale Price: $175,000
Homes for sale in Danville | Apartments for rent in Danville

Danville takes pride in its history, with the Danville Station Museum showcasing artifacts and stories from the town’s early days as a railroad hub. Each year, the town hosts the Danville Fall Festival, where residents enjoy local crafts, live music, and delicious homemade pies. Additionally, Danville is known for its connection to the infamous Jesse James. As rumors suggest, the outlaw and his group passed through the area during their Midwest escapades.

4. Underwood, IA

Median Sale Price: $325,000
Homes for sale in Underwood | Apartments for rent in Underwood

Underwood’s quaint Main Street has plenty of local businesses and shops, where you can find residents catching up over coffee or browsing unique finds. The town hosts the annual Underwood Pancake Breakfast, a popular local event where people gather for a morning of delicious pancakes and community connection. Underwood’s proximity to the Loess Hills also gives residents easy access to the outdoors, perfect for hiking, biking, and exploring nature.

5. Maxwell, IA

Median Sale Price: $102,000
Homes for sale in Maxwell | Apartments for rent in Maxwell

Maxwell is located in central Iowa and has a friendly community and beautiful rural landscapes. One fun fact about Maxwell is its connection to early aviation. The town was once home to Iowa’s first licensed female pilot, Ruth H. Berge, who earned her wings in the 1930s. Every summer, Maxwell hosts Old Settlers Days, a beloved community event that’s been celebrated for over 140 years. The event features parades, live music, and a pie-baking contest that locals take very seriously. The town’s location along the scenic Heart of Iowa Nature Trail makes it a favorite spot for outdoor enthusiasts, who enjoy biking, hiking, and spotting wildlife.

6. Armstrong, IA

Median Sale Price: $230,000
Homes for sale in Armstrong | Apartments for rent in Armstrong

With its friendly spirit and relaxed pace, Armstrong is a small town where everyone feels like a neighbor. For history buffs, the Armstrong Heritage Museum gives you a look into the town’s past, preserving artifacts and stories from the area’s early settlers. Residents enjoy gathering at the town’s community park, where summer evenings are often spent watching little league games or having a picnic under the shade trees. Armstrong’s agricultural roots run deep, and the surrounding farmland contributes to the town’s economy and rural charm.

7. Victor, IA

Median Sale Price: $135,000
Homes for sale in Victor | Apartments for rent in Victor

Victor’s historic downtown features unique shops and local businesses, including Victor’s Market, where locals can pick up fresh groceries. Each year, Victor hosts the popular Victor Fun Days, a weekend filled with parades, games, and food vendors. The town’s proximity to the Amana Colonies, a nearby historic site, offers visitors a chance to explore traditional German crafts, food, and festivals. Outdoor lovers often go to the nearby Marengo River Access for fishing and kayaking on the Iowa River.

8. Redfield, IA

Median Sale Price: $245,000
Homes for sale in Redfield | Apartments for rent in Redfield

Redfield’s crown jewel is its proximity to the Raccoon River Valley Trail, a popular biking and hiking trail that attracts outdoor enthusiasts from across the region. Each year, Redfield hosts the Old Settlers Day, a beloved festival that brings together residents for parades, fireworks, and live music. The town’s riverfront park is a local hotspot for fishing, kayaking, picnics, and peaceful views of the river. History lovers can explore Redfield’s historic train depot, which stands as a reminder of the town’s early days as a transportation hub.

9. Colo, IA

Median Sale Price: $165,000
Homes for sale in Colo | Apartments for rent in Colo

Colo is located in central Iowa and has a deep railroad history and a welcoming community. The town’s most famous landmark is the Reed/Niland Corner. The landmark is  a historic gas station, café, and motel that served travelers along the Lincoln Highway in the early 20th century. Today, the restored site offers a glimpse into Colo’s past and serves as a memory of the town’s role in America’s transportation history. The town is also close to Hickory Grove Park, where locals go to fish, swim, and camp around the scenic lake.

Methodology: The median home sale price is from the Redfin Data Center.

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