Tucked into quiet towns and rural corners, Iowa’s oldest standing homes are living relics of the past. These houses—some built before Iowa was even a state—tell stories of pioneer grit, immigrant craftsmanship, and evolving architecture on the Midwestern frontier. From sturdy limestone farmhouses to elegant brick mansions, each structure offers a rare glimpse into the daily lives of early settlers who braved the elements to lay down roots. This list of the 12 oldest homes still standing in Iowa celebrates not just their age, but their resilience—and the generations who’ve preserved them.
1. Italianate Home in Keokuk, Iowa (1834)
Built in 1834, this charming 2-story brick Italianate house is brimming with potential, ready for a new owner to complete the finishing touches. Whether transformed into a spacious single-family home or an up-and-down duplex, it offers endless possibilities. Major updates completed in 2024 include two new gas furnaces, A/C units, a hot water heater, a newly installed roof, soffits, fascia, and full professional tuck-pointing. Brand-new, boxed Samsung stainless steel appliances for the kitchen — including a range, refrigerator, and dishwasher — are ready for installation.
2. Folk Vernacular Home in Independence, Iowa (1835)
Built in 1835, this charming residence beautifully blends historical character with modern comfort. The classic two-story home features an inviting front porch, timeless architectural details, and generous windows that flood the interiors with natural light. Inside, well-maintained hardwood floors, spacious living areas, and elegant trim work evoke its 19th-century heritage. Tasteful updates throughout the kitchen and bathrooms offer convenience while respecting the home’s storied past. Set on a spacious lot with mature trees and lush landscaping, this property exudes both warmth and curb appeal, making it a remarkable piece of local history.
3. Craftsman Bungalow in Clinton, Iowa (1837)
Built in 1837, this is proudly the oldest home in Clinton and an absolute gem, having been completely remodeled from top to bottom. Natural light beams through every room, highlighting an amazing kitchen with a large center island, butcher block countertops, and stainless steel appliances. The main floor features flexible spaces including a living room, potential dining or office area, a bedroom, and a full bath. Downstairs, you’ll find two additional bedrooms, a laundry room, and another full bath, plus a spacious landing ideal for a mudroom. Set on a corner lot with off-street parking, the outdoor area offers great potential for screening in or creating the perfect grilling and entertaining space, making this historic home a unique blend of charm and modern living.
4. Vernacular Home in Monticello, Iowa (1840)
Built in 1840, this beautifully renovated home truly defines turnkey living with its comprehensive updates from top to bottom. Located in a quiet neighborhood, it offers three spacious bedrooms and three stunningly remodeled bathrooms, each featuring gigantic walk-in showers. The kitchen is equipped with granite countertops and new flooring runs throughout the home, giving it a fresh and modern feel. Energy efficiency is top-notch, with spray foam insulation, a new high-efficiency furnace and AC, plus brand-new electrical and plumbing systems. The oversized two-car garage is fully lined, insulated, and heated, making this property move-in ready and perfect for comfortable family living.
5. American Foursquare Home in Burlington, Iowa (1840)
Built in 1840, this inviting home offers stunning views of the Mississippi River and boasts a complete interior makeover. The house features new kitchen cabinets, modern appliances, an updated bathroom, new upstairs carpet, freshly painted walls, and refinished hardwood floors, making it truly move-in ready. Spacious rooms, an ornate staircase, and a rear balcony provide charm and a relaxing space to enjoy the surrounding wildlife. Additional highlights include a full walkout basement with ample storage, a bar area for entertaining guests, and a convenient laundry area. Combining comfort, character, and natural beauty, this home is perfect for family living and enjoying scenic river views.
6. Shingle Style Home in Dubuque, Iowa (1840)
Built in 1840, this meticulously renovated home masterfully blends timeless character with modern luxury. Exceptional updates enhance every level while preserving the original charm, offering breathtaking city views throughout. The main floor boasts an inviting living room with a cozy fireplace, a stylish kitchen, dining area, and a half bath, all filled with natural light and access to a spacious main deck perfect for relaxing. Upstairs, the master suite joins two additional bedrooms, a full bath, and entry to the top deck, providing even more opportunities to enjoy the scenery. The lower level features a fourth bedroom, a recreational room with its own fireplace, a full bath, and a wine cellar, creating a perfect balance of comfort and elegance for today’s living.
7. Second Empire Home in Sabula, Iowa (1845)
Built in 1845, this home is filled with original character, boasting three fireplaces, beautiful hardwood floors, rich woodwork, and impressive 10-foot ceilings. The spacious main level features an open staircase at the entry, a large kitchen with ample storage, a pantry, a 3/4 bath, and a laundry area with access to a deck and backyard. Upstairs offers four roomy bedrooms and a full bath, with the master bedroom including a fourth fireplace and a walk-in closet. The curved front porch is ideal for entertaining or relaxing outdoors, while the fenced backyard features an above-ground pool and garden areas with raspberry and strawberry patches. Recent updates include a new garage roof, siding, and windows, with additional replacement windows ready for installation.
8. Folk Victorian Home in Clinton, Iowa (1845)
Built in 1845, this beautifully remodeled home offers modern comfort while retaining its historic charm. The main floor features a convenient laundry area, a first-floor bedroom, and a brand new full bath, along with a stunning eat-in kitchen equipped with stylish counters and cabinets. The living room showcases a captivating fireplace and attractive wood laminate flooring. Upstairs, you’ll find two additional bedrooms and a spacious full bath with a walk-in shower. Recent updates include replacement windows, fixtures, and doors. Enjoy relaxing in the three-season porch or on the patio overlooking the level backyard, with a detached two-car garage accessible from the paved alley.
9. Folk Victorian Home in Dubuque, Iowa (1849)
Built in 1849, this wonderful home welcomes you with a charming wrap-around porch and a side deck perfect for gathering and relaxation. Located near Bryant School in Dubuque’s south end, the three-bedroom, two-bath residence features hardwood floors and a spacious kitchen, complemented by the convenience of a main floor laundry room. Recent updates include newer heating and AC systems, updated windows, and low-maintenance vinyl siding. The home offers plenty of storage in the lower level, as well as a clean, dry, and waterproofed basement for added peace of mind. Inside and out, this property is designed for comfort and easy living.
10. Queen Anne Victorian Home in Keokuk, Iowa (1850)
Built in 1850, this breathtaking home combines timeless elegance with modern comfort and offers a stunning panoramic view of the river. With over 5,000 square feet of living space, it features five spacious bedrooms and three baths, providing ample room for family and guests. Practicality meets luxury with a second-floor laundry, two gas furnaces, and two air-conditioning units ensuring comfort year-round. A detached three-car garage provides plenty of parking and storage, while a charming porch and patio invite you to relax and enjoy the scenic riverside views. This remarkable property truly epitomizes the best of riverside living.
11. Tudor Revival Home in Camanche, Iowa (1850)
Built in 1850, this remarkable home boasts over 100 feet of river frontage and comes complete with its own boat dock, offering an exceptional waterfront lifestyle. The property features five river-facing patios and a screened-in porch, perfect for enjoying scenic views. Inside, you’ll find five bedrooms, three fireplaces, five bathrooms, a wet bar, and a spacious eat-in kitchen with a pantry, brick pizza oven, breakfast bar, and cozy nook. The attached two-car garage includes a heated driveway and sidewalk for convenience. The luxurious master suite spans 1.5 stories and offers a fireplace with a waterfall mantle, walk-in closet, jacuzzi tub, 8-head walk-in shower, private wet bar, loft, sitting area, and access to three private patios.
12. Vernacular Farmhouse in Charlotte, Iowa (1850)
Built in 1850, this charming, renovated farmhouse sits on an acre of land about two miles down a gravel road. Inside, the home offers four bedrooms, including a spacious primary suite on the main floor with a walk-in closet and step-in shower, along with two full baths. The kitchen is completely updated, featuring real butcher block countertops and a large farmhouse sink. Upstairs, there are three sizeable bedrooms with plenty of closet space. Enjoy peaceful country living from the wrap-around deck. Additional highlights include a brand new 26 x 30 building with three garage doors and a septic system less than a year old.