$220,830Average Value$119Average Price per Sq Ft22Homes For Sale
Anamosa blends rural living with 19th-century charm
Situated along the scenic Wapsipinicon River, Anamosa is a rural community known for its small-town lore, historic landmarks and an annual pumpkin festival. Founded in 1838, its name is said to honor a Native American girl named Anamosa, which translates to “white fawn” or “you walk with me.” Main Street is a testament to its deep roots, featuring 19th-century brick buildings with eclectic shops, cozy cafés and family owned businesses. “It’s a growing community,” says Realtor Ryan Barner of Barner Realty & Auction, whose office is downtown. “There’s been a concerted effort to revamp the Main Street storefronts. There’s a new ice cream shop, a new restaurant and a whole lot of new homes planned for construction.” The town’s most iconic landmark is the Anamosa State Penitentiary, an ornate, castle-like structure built in the late 1800s. This facility remains active today and, together with its museum, provides a fascinating window into Iowa’s history.
Anamosa is a growing community northeast of Cedar Rapids.
Anamosa State Penitentiary was built in the late 1800s and remains active today.
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Boutiques, galleries and markets line historic Main Street
Downtown Anamosa features a mix of locally owned boutiques, antique shops, art galleries and specialty stores. When it comes to dining, options range from classic American diners to lively cafés and family pizzerias. Favorite dining spots include Las Brasas for down-home Mexican fare, and Tyler & Downing’s Eatery for American fare and live music. Local markets and bakeries offer homemade goods, while a seasonal farmers market brings Iowa produce to the streets. With its compact, pedestrian-friendly layout, downtown Anamosa encourages walking, window shopping and admiring the historic brick facades that line the streets. Grocery options include Fareway Meat and Grocery and Walmart.
Historic brick buildings line the streets of downtown Anamosa.
Anamosa's revitalization efforts have brought many new restaurants to downtown.
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Main Street transforms each October for pumpkin-themed fun
Community events are a big deal in Anamosa, including the well-known Anamosa Pumpkinfest. Every October, Main Street comes alive with pumpkin-themed contests, crafts, music and a pumpkin weigh-off that draws crowds from across the Midwest. The event’s record for the largest pumpkin is 2,424 pounds, set in 2022. The festival is so popular that the Iowa State Legislature declared Anamosa the Pumpkin Capital of Iowa in 1993.
A mix of historic homes and new construction near the countryside
Anamosa offers diverse housing options, from Colonial Revival and Victorian homes to modest cottages and ranch-style homes. Newer single-family residences are also found here, typically in subdivisions on the outskirts of town. “You’ve got a lot of older homes, but there are always a few new builds on the market as well,” Barner says. Generous lot sizes are common, with spacious yards providing room for gardens and glimpses of the nearby river or rolling countryside. Prices typically range from around $100,000 to $375,000, depending on size and age. “It’s a little cheaper than Cedar Rapids and Marion, but it’s still within commuting distance. I think that’s why we’re seeing so much new construction here,” Barner adds.
Anamosa features Victorian and other historic home styles.
New construction homes can be found in subdivisions on the outskirts of Anamosa.
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Wapsipinicon State Park draws campers and nature lovers
Anamosa may be a small town, but it has plenty of outdoor recreation. The town has nearly a dozen community parks tucked away on small-town streets. Residents relax amid the gardens at Stallion Creek Park, play pickup baseball at Anamosa Ball Park or stroll along flowery walkways at Fountain Park. The picturesque Wapsipinicon State Park, just south of downtown, has hiking trails that wind through woodland and bluffs, fishing and canoeing on the river, camping and even a scenic nine-hole golf course. “It’s packed during camping season,” Barner says.
Anamosa residents love hiking the winding trails of Wapsipinicon State Park.
Fountain Park is just one of nearly a dozen community parks in Anamosa.
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Local schools offer basics, with college nearby for next steps
Students start their education close to home at Strawberry Hill Elementary School, followed by Anamosa Middle School, both of which earn C ratings from Niche. The last step is Anamosa High School, well known for its extracurricular programs like band, drama, football and cross-country running. It gets a C-plus rating. “They really like their sports at the high school. They just got a brand-new gym,” Barner says. For continuing education, Kirkwood Community College has a satellite campus nearby.
Anamosa students begin their education at Strawberry Hill Elementary School.
Anamosa Middle School serves students in grades 6 - 8.
Anamosa High School is well known for its extracurricular programs.
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The commute to Cedar Rapids is easy via Highway 151
Public transportation options are limited in Anamosa, so most residents rely on personal vehicles to get around town. It’s about 25 miles northeast of Cedar Rapids, making for a relatively easy commute via U.S. Highway 151. Eastern Iowa Airport, in Cedar Rapids, is roughly 34 miles away. Jones Regional Medical Center is located just outside town.
Written By
Daniel Berti
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Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Anamosa, IA sell after 45 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Anamosa, IA over the last 12 months is $174,900, up 7% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Rolling Hills Retreat – where modern comfort meets rural tranquility. Set on 3.83 acres in the desirable Rolling Hills Estates near Anamosa, this 2019 custom build offers over 4,400 sq ft of refined living surrounded by peaceful countryside. Positioned approximately 40 feet above the stocked HOA pond, this home combines breathtaking views with lasting peace of mind. Spend quiet evenings on the
This beautifully well-maintained zero-lot home offers 1,704 square feet of comfortable living space. 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath property with a spacious eat-in kitchen and ample cabinetry. Great for entertaining with room to gather, making everyday living easy. The thoughtful layout provides good separation of space, generous room sizes, and an easy, functional flow throughout. Ideal for buyers seeking
Spacious 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home on a generous 0.30-acre lot in the heart of Grant Wood country. This Anamosa charmer features an eat-in kitchen plus a formal dining room, a large living room, beautiful plaster walls, coved ceilings, and wood floors. Two bedrooms on the main level and two upstairs—both upper bedrooms with their own thermostats—offer plenty of room to spread out, and all four
Where timeless character meets everyday comfort. This zero-entry, inviting two-story home sits proudly on a corner lot in a quiet neighborhood, just steps from Anamosa’s schools, parks, and downtown amenities. Upstairs, 3 bedrooms with large windows and classic woodwork, creating a cozy and welcoming retreat for family or guests. This home also boasts 2 generously full sized bathrooms. Enjoy
Newly constructed immediate possession custom built ranch by Mike Kraus Homes. Specialty features include Alder solid wood cabinetry and paneled doors, Premiere Construction full wood box structure, large base trim and moldings, black stainless appliances and etched glass pantry door. The main floor is open and flows well with the great room and kitchen at the center of the home. A split bedroom
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Set on a full acre with serene countryside & sunset views, this custom-built home is designed to be enjoyed inside & out. Undeniable curb appeal, with extensive stonework, a grand welcoming front porch, and composite deck with glass railing for unobstructed views. Inside, you’ll find spacious rooms filled with natural light, solid-core doors, hardwood floors, & elevated ceilings. The kitchen
Country living meets convenience at 22980 105th St! This updated home has everything you need — and more — from a 50-amp RV AND Generac hookup to an outdoor kitchen/workshop setup in the attached heated garage. Inside, you’ll find new carpet, LVP flooring, trim, and doors throughout, creating a crisp and comfortable interior. Step out back to a fully fenced yard with a spacious patio and a
Solid and move-in ready ranch in Anamosa! This home has been lovingly cared for and it shows! The brick front porch welcomes you to step inside, where you’ll find a spacious living room with new carpet and new ceiling fan. Updated kitchen with new LVP flooring, white cabinets (some with glass fronts), wrap-around breakfast bar, new fridge, new stove, & all appliances included. Large dining area
Welcome to 605 W Main Street in charming Anamosa. This spacious 3 bed, 2.5 bath home offers over 2,200 square feet of character and potential. Tall ceilings, large windows, and original hardwood floors create a warm, inviting feel throughout. The kitchen has a functional layout and room to make it your own. Recent updates include new AC in 2025. Upstairs, you'll find a rare four-season
Jenna Burt-Top Tier Home TeamKeller Williams Legacy Group
Updated 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath home on 1.22 acres in Anamosa, Iowa, offering modern finishes, flexible living space, and an oversized 1,080 sq ft garage. This move-in ready acreage property features new flooring, fresh paint throughout, and beautifully renovated bathrooms. The main level includes a welcoming living room with a stone fireplace, open dining area, and a spacious kitchen with stainless
IMPORTANT??: If you are viewing this post, the property is available. You must apply and pass the background check BEFORE you schedule a showing. This stunning home has been fully renovated and is absolutely pristine—you’ll be the very first resident since completion. This expansive property offers nearly 2,200 sq ft of finished living space (1,200 sq ft upper, 980 sq ft finished lower)
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