Step back in time and discover the charm of small-town Americana with these four beautifully preserved historic homes in Columbus, Nebraska—all listed under $300,000. From the elegant lines of a 1920 American Foursquare to the storybook charm of an 1890 Folk Victorian, each property offers timeless architecture paired with modern updates. Whether you’re drawn to the simplicity of a 1900 Gable-Front or the cozy efficiency of a classic 1920 Ranch, these homes capture the spirit of Nebraska heritage in an inviting and affordable style.
1. 1920 American Foursquare in Columbus, NE
Built-in 1920, this classic American Foursquare home in Columbus, Nebraska, showcases timeless architectural charm with a boxy two-story design, wide eaves, and a welcoming front porch. Located on a 2,904 sq ft lot, the home offers 1,731 sq ft of interior living space. Recent updates include new flooring, fresh interior paint, updated light fixtures, and a new AC unit. Priced at $230,000, this property features four bedrooms, one and a half baths, and a partially finished basement, perfect for a custom game room or home theater.
Where is Columbus?
Columbus is located in eastern Nebraska, within the Midwest region of the United States. Positioned near the Platte River, it sits roughly 85 miles west of Omaha and 75 miles northwest of Lincoln. Founded in the mid-19th century as a railroad and transportation hub, Columbus blends small-town warmth with industrial roots. The city is known for its vibrant community events, historic neighborhoods, and well-preserved examples of American residential architecture. Nearby parks, river trails, and a growing arts scene add to its charm.
Living Room
The spacious living room features an open layout with large front-facing windows that invite natural light into the space. Soft gray tile flooring extends throughout, complemented by taupe walls and rich, dark wood trim. A pair of ceiling fans with recessed lighting adds a modern touch while ensuring comfort. Plush brown recliners line one wall, perfect for relaxed evenings, and the room flows effortlessly into an adjacent sunroom and the main entry, maintaining a welcoming and connected feel.
Dining Room
This formal dining room is defined by clean lines and understated elegance. A bold red tablecloth offers a vibrant pop of color atop the dark wood dining table, which seats six comfortably. Neutral walls and wide-plank tile flooring create a modern yet timeless backdrop. Natural light enters through a large side window, softened by light curtains. A wide doorway connects the space to the living room, making it ideal for gatherings. A ceiling fan adds function while maintaining the room’s open, airy atmosphere.
Kitchen
The kitchen blends functionality with refined style, featuring dark wood cabinetry and stainless steel appliances. A striking gray and blue tile backsplash spans behind the stove and countertops, giving the space a contemporary edge. Neutral wall tones and bright windows offer a balance of light and warmth, while ample storage makes the space practical. A ceiling fan and recessed lighting add to the room’s versatility, and laminate flooring ties it all together for a clean, updated finish.
Bedroom
This cozy upstairs bedroom is bathed in soft, natural light thanks to two wide, double-hung windows. Beige walls and plush neutral carpeting create a warm and inviting atmosphere, ideal for rest. A ceiling fan with wooden blades adds a traditional touch. A white bed dressed with playful, travel-themed linens and plush toys lends the space a charming, personal vibe. The white trim and tall baseboards enhance the room’s historic character while keeping the aesthetic crisp and simple.
Backyard
The rear exterior showcases the home’s traditional American Foursquare shape, complete with a small back porch and direct access to the detached garage via a gravel driveway. The modest backyard features open grassy areas on either side and alley access for convenient parking. Surrounded by other historic homes, the setting feels connected to a well-established neighborhood. While unmanicured, the lot offers potential for landscaping or a garden area. It’s a quiet, functional space that complements the home’s overall practicality.
Source: Elisa SaenzkwELITE via Zillow
2. 1890 Folk Victorian Home in Columbus, NE
Built-in 1890, this Folk Victorian-style residence sits on a generous 8,712 sq ft corner lot in Columbus, Nebraska. With 1,674 sq ft of living space, the home retains historic charm through its asymmetrical roofline, front-facing gable, and classic wraparound porch. Listed at $235,000, this three-bedroom, one-bath property includes fresh interior paint in several rooms and a spacious layout. A detached two-car garage, fenced yard, and partial basement with laundry add practicality to this character-rich Midwestern home.
Where is Columbus?
Columbus, Nebraska, is located in the east-central region of the state, nestled along the Platte River. Approximately 85 miles west of Omaha, it has long served as a transportation and industrial hub since its founding in the 1850s. Columbus is known for its historic neighborhoods, civic pride, and welcoming community. Its downtown area features preserved architecture, local dining, and cultural events. The city offers a blend of small-town tranquility and regional accessibility, making it a hidden gem in the Midwest.
Living Room
The living room offers a lived-in and flexible space filled with natural light from several windows. Light gray laminate flooring contrasts with soft blue-gray walls and dark trim, giving the room a cozy yet practical vibe. A recliner and children’s play equipment sit beside a wide front-facing window framed by deep curtains. A ceiling fan provides overhead light and airflow. The space also features an arched doorway and access to the front door, reinforcing its central role in the home’s layout.
Kitchen
Warm oak cabinetry lines the kitchen walls, paired with white countertops and a dark blue backsplash for a touch of contrast. A stainless steel French door refrigerator sits adjacent to a vintage-style back door painted in pale blue. Modern vinyl plank flooring runs throughout, offering easy upkeep. Open counter space and numerous drawers make the kitchen highly functional. The room’s cheerful and eclectic feel is perfect for cooking or gathering, and appliances, including a microwave and coffee maker, are neatly arranged for convenience.
Bedroom
This main-floor bedroom features a peaceful color palette with muted walls and a light-patterned bedspread atop a large bed. A trio of dark brown window drapes frames tall windows, one of which lets in soft daylight. The space includes a wooden dresser, a wall-mounted TV, and a bassinet tucked near the bed, emphasizing its role as a restful retreat. A portable fan and compact storage bins add functionality, and a soft gray rug underfoot completes the cozy, lived-in atmosphere.
Upstairs Bonus Room
Located on the upper level, this bonus space is tucked beneath a sloped ceiling, creating a cozy, tucked-away atmosphere. Light hardwood flooring runs wall to wall, complemented by crisp white baseboards. A small window with sheer and blackout curtains provides natural light. The angled ceiling, painted with a gradient of blue tones from indirect lighting, adds a whimsical touch. Ideal for a home office, creative studio, or reading nook, this versatile room offers quiet privacy with a touch of charm.
Backyard
The fenced backyard offers both privacy and potential. A tall wooden fence encloses the space, while patches of greenery and dirt create a blank slate for landscaping or garden beds. The back of the home is visible with its clean white siding and compact addition, along with a satellite dish and access door. Surrounded by mature trees and neighboring homes, this outdoor space is ideal for pets, play, or future projects. A simple setup with plenty of room to grow.
Source: BHHS AMBASSADOR REAL ESTATE via Zillow
3. 1900 Gable-Front Home in Columbus, NE
This 1900-built gable-front home in Columbus, Nebraska, offers turn-of-the-century charm blended with modern updates. Listed at $235,000, the 1,293 sq ft residence sits on a 5,368 sq ft lot and features 4 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, and a fully finished basement. A classic triangular gable roof, bright vinyl siding, and red window trim lend bold character to the exterior. Inside, recent renovations include updated flooring and a spacious kitchen with a bar-height counter. The uniquely landscaped backyard features a tranquil koi pond, enhancing the home’s relaxing atmosphere.
Where is Columbus?
Columbus is located in east-central Nebraska, along the scenic Platte River, roughly 85 miles west of Omaha. Founded in the mid-1800s, it developed as a railway and industrial center. Today, the city maintains its small-town appeal with rich cultural heritage, historic architecture, and community events. Columbus is known for its well-preserved residential neighborhoods and easy access to recreational amenities such as Pawnee Park, Lake North, and walking trails along the river, making it a vibrant hub in the heart of the Midwest.
Living Room
The living room is bright and contemporary, featuring sleek wood-look vinyl flooring and soft white walls with a textured finish. A set of plush white leather recliners lines one side of the room, creating a cozy seating area around a circular glass coffee table. A classic black chandelier hangs from the ceiling, while a warm wood-framed window and French doors offer light and charm. The space feels crisp, clean, and welcoming—ideal for casual lounging or entertaining guests.
Dining Room
The formal dining room is open and inviting, with abundant natural light streaming through a wide window dressed in wooden blinds. Glossy wood-style flooring adds warmth, while the clean white walls create a gallery-like feel. A modern glass-top dining table is paired with four white leather chairs, and a sleek bar cart in the corner suggests a stylish space for hosting. A pop-art style portrait adds a splash of personality, enhancing the room’s balance of classic and modern elements.
Kitchen
The kitchen strikes a bold contrast with dark countertops, navy blue cabinetry, and whitewashed upper cabinets. A large bar-height counter provides casual seating and extra prep space, perfect for gatherings or quick meals. The stainless steel appliances—including a side-by-side refrigerator and electric range—add a polished, contemporary touch. A diamond-pane glass door adds visual interest and leads to the backyard. White walls and sleek finishes make this kitchen both functional and stylish, suited for everyday cooking and entertaining alike.
Garden
This uniquely landscaped backyard is a peaceful retreat with defined paths made from pavers and bricks winding through gravel and garden beds. A small koi pond nestled beneath a tree adds a serene focal point, while rustic wooden edging gives the space a handcrafted look. The back deck, painted in deep red to match the home’s trim, includes stairs, built-in planters, and a partially enclosed section. Surrounded by a matching red fence, the yard is both private and full of character, a true garden oasis.
Source: CENTURY 21 REALTY TEAM via Zillow
4. 1920 Ranch Home in Columbus, NE
This charming 1920 ranch-style home in Columbus, Nebraska, offers a classic layout on a well-kept 6,360 square-foot lot. Priced at $225,000, the 988-square-foot residence has been tastefully updated, including a new A/C unit, furnace, and water heater in 2024, as well as roof and gutter replacements in 2018. The home features two bedrooms and two bathrooms, plus a full basement. Located in the historic Stevens neighborhood, it blends timeless character with modern comforts.
Where is Columbus?
Columbus, Nebraska, is situated in the eastern part of the state, part of the Great Plains region of the Midwest. Approximately 85 miles west of Omaha and 75 miles northwest of Lincoln, Columbus has deep roots in transportation and agriculture. Its historic downtown boasts early 20th-century architecture, while nearby Pawnee Park and the Platte River offer scenic outdoor escapes. Columbus is known for its tight-knit community and historic homes with enduring craftsmanship.
Living Room
The living room greets you with warm hardwood floors and natural wood trim that frames the windows and entryways. A ceiling fan with soft lighting hangs overhead, and sunlight filters through double windows, brightening the space. An inviting taupe wall palette complements the earthy tones of the trim. This room connects seamlessly to the dining area through a classic, wide wood-framed doorway that evokes early 20th-century American design.
Kitchen
The kitchen features white cabinetry with sleek modern hardware and speckled laminate countertops. A trio of windows allows ample natural light to stream in over the sink, while a ceiling fan helps maintain a comfortable breeze. Soft beige walls provide a neutral backdrop for open shelves and built-in storage nooks. The space feels fresh and open, ideal for both quick breakfasts and meal prep, with a direct connection to the main living areas.
Bedroom
This peaceful bedroom is located on the main floor and features soft beige walls and a cozy carpet underfoot. Two large windows on opposite walls let in generous daylight and provide a pleasant cross-breeze. Dark gray curtains offer contrast and privacy, while natural wood trim around the windows and ceiling enhances the historic feel. A ceiling fan with a light fixture adds comfort, and the layout is simple and restful.
Side View
From the side, the home’s well-maintained vinyl siding and newer windows are visible, along with a sloped roof that nods to its 1920s roots. A gravel driveway leads to a detached one-car garage. Lush trees provide dappled afternoon shade while a concrete walkway wraps around the house. The manicured foundation, landscaping, and crisp trim speak to the recent updates and care taken in preserving the home’s curb appeal.
Source: EXP REALTY, INC via Zillow