Burlington, the first capital of Iowa, was founded in 1833 on the western shores of the Mississippi River in Southeast Iowa. The city has kept much of its 19th-century charm through its homes and the elaborate buildings across the hilly downtown. Snake Alley, known as the crookedest street in the world, serves as another reminder of the city’s early years. With five quick sharp turns, sharper than San Francisco landmark Lombard Street, and a climb of 60 feet, the brick path was originally meant to help horses in the 1800s. Now, it’s a one-way street down for vehicles. The city’s manufacturing plants are some of the biggest employers, including CNH Industrial and Silgan Containers Corporation. CNH, however, plans to close the plant in 2026. That has been a common occurrence in Burlington over the past few decades. However, there does appear to be a positive shift as downtown has added dozens of businesses in the last two years. There’s also a strong sense of pride and community among locals who gather frequently by the river for annual events.
Burlington, Iowa is home to around 24,000 people.
Downtown Burlington is thriving with historic buildings and new businesses.
1/2
Historic Victorians, modern houses and downtown condos
The median home price in Burlington is $123,500, nearly three-quarters less than the national median. The city is full of Victorian homes that date back to the late 1800s. “They’re some of the most beautiful historic homes you’ll ever see,” says Anna Mack, a broker at Pearl City Iowa Realty, who sells homes in Burlington. “It’s like a bunch of big beautiful castles.” Many of these homes have deteriorated with age, but people are working to bring them back to life. "There are quite a few investors,” says Mack, “And it’s nice to see what went down is coming right back up.” Homebuyers can also find more modern homes on the city’s outskirts and condominiums downtown.
Many beautiful historic homes can be found in the center of Burlington.
Newer homes are scattered around the outskirts of Burlington.
1/2
Fun by the Mississippi at Riverside Park
More than 200 acres are designated as parks maintained by the city. One option is Mosquito Park, which sits atop a bluff overlooking Riverside Park and the Mississippi River. There are dozens of more green spaces with mature trees, playgrounds and athletics fields for local leagues. For all-around entertainment, FunCity Resort attracts crowds to its indoor and outdoor waterparks, arcade, go-cart track and bowling alley.
Dankwardt Park is a large city park with amenities for everyone to enjoy.
The view of the Mississippi River from Dankwardt Park is unmatched in Burlington.
1/2
Heritage Days and other waterfront events
Several events are held throughout the year, and the city takes advantage of the riverfront to celebrate. Heritage Days events honor the city’s history. Burlington also celebrates its self-proclamation as the “Catfish Capital of the World” during the annual Catfish Festival. The city hosts several races, such as the Great River Bridge Race and the Snake Alley Criterium. Many holidays are also observed with parades, including the Fourth of July and the Christmas season.
In-person and virtual learning through the Burlington Community School District
Burlington Community School District earns a C grade from Niche. Students are split between four elementary schools before all merging at the intermediate school, middle school and high school. Students in all grade levels also have the opportunity to learn through the school district’s VIBE virtual learning program, where they may still participate in activities such as music, art and physical education. Post-secondary students have the option of attending Southeastern Community College in the city.
Burlington High School serves around 1,100 students in grades 9-12.
Southeastern Community College attracts Burlington residents and those from miles around for secondary education.
1/2
Downtown storefronts in historic buildings
The steeples of four churches of different Christian denominations tower next to each other over Burlington’s downtown shops and restaurants. Many businesses have set up shop in century-old buildings along downtown’s hilly streets that lead down to the Mississippi River. Meanwhile, West Burlington has a more commercial scene with big-box retailers all over the connecting city.
Residents of Burlington take pride in their city and their smaller communities.
West Burlington is the commercial hub of the Burlington area, with many big box stores.
1/2
Burlington Urban Service and other means of transportation
U.S. Highways 34 and 61 intersect in Burlington, with 34 running east-west and 61 extending north-south. Locals can get around the city by taking a BUS (Burlington Urban Service). For long-distance travel, people can take a Greyhound bus. There’s an Amtrak station where the California Zephyr train operates from Chicago to San Francisco. And Southeast Iowa Regional Airport offers non-stop flights to Chicago and St. Louis via Southern Airways Express' propeller driven single-engine airplanes. The larger airport of Cedar Rapids is about 100 miles away with a broader selection of destinations and airlines.
Community Engagement Unit established to help reduce crime and build connections
Violent and property crime rates are higher in Burlington than in Iowa and the United States, according to local data compiled by the FBI. The police department helps initiate neighborhood watch programs around the city. It also created the Community Engagement Unit (CEU) to help build strong relationships between residents and police. The CEU reinforces that goal by hosting National Night Out, a nationwide event where neighbors and first responders come together to strengthen their bond. In Burlington, the event is held at Riverside Park. Upriver effects of rain or spring snow melt can bring flooding concerns to Burlington. A pair of levees serve to protect portions of the city's downtown.
Written By
Nicolas Stuart
Photography Contributed By
Drew Davis
Video By
Kyo Nguyen
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
John Mercer,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Burlington, IA sell after 52 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Burlington, IA over the last 12 months is $129,000, up 9% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Nice ranch style home in a good neighborhood.Home is being sold as -is with all contents included. Features include 3 bedrooms,1 bath, and 1 car carport and a large yard.
Historic Swann-Schramm House – A Rare Opportunity Above Snake Alley. Own a remarkable piece of Burlington history with the stunning Swann-Schramm House, proudly listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Built circa 1850, this iconic 5-bedroom, 2-bath residence overlooks the world-famous Snake Alley, offering a truly one-of-a-kind setting filled with timeless charm and character. Major
Huge home with lots of potential. Could be duplexed although one unit currently. Very little would have to be done to revert it back to a duplex. Needs some TLC but lots of character in this home. house is 100 Marshall by address but is actually 102-104
CHECK IT OUT! Move-in ready 4-bedroom, 3-bath home offering over 2,100 sq ft of living space. This well-maintained property features a cozy gas fireplace, generous living areas, and a bright 3-season room perfect for relaxing or entertaining. Step outside to enjoy the huge fenced-in backyard with beautiful landscaping and mature trees, ideal for pets, play, or gatherings. Complete with a 2-car
NATURE LOVER'S PARADISE! This magnificent, rustic Santa Fe inspired home, designed by the artist who lived there, is a magical property and a rare gem. Nestled at the edge of the woods overlooking ponds, and cradled amongst trees, this is Nature Lover’s Paradise! 36.46 ac m/l of which approx. 13ac tillable and the balance in timber and two beautiful meadows with endless potential, hills, woodland
Check out this 3-bedroom home with a 4th nonconforming bedroom and potential for 2 full bathrooms. This home offers a great opportunity for investors or buyers looking to build equity. With the right vision and updates, this property could truly shine. Bring your ideas and make it your own!
Located in a peaceful, well-established neighborhood just 6 miles north of Burlington and 7 miles south of Mediapolis Iowa, this 2.2 +/- acre building lot offers the perfect blend of peaceful country living with modern amenities. This flat, corner lot has electricity, water and fiber optics already on site, this property is ready for your dream home. Enjoy a safe, family-friendly setting with
Great square footage in this 4 bedroom 2 bathroom home! Large eat in kitchen with main floor bedroom, bathroom, and laundry room. Upstairs you have 3 massive bedrooms and another full bathroom. Enjoy the snow or sun on the back patio. Also includes a cement pad in the backyard for parking.
DEFINITELY NOT A DRIVE BY!!!!! SPACIOUS 1700 SQ FOOT RANCH..UPDATED COZY 3 BEDROOM RANCH WITH MASTER SUITE... NEW KITCHEN OPEN TO FAMILY ROOM WITH FIRE PLACE.... NICE 3 SEASON PORCH OFF FAMILY ROOM... EXTRA LARGE FENCED YARD ATTACHED 2 CAR GARAGE..... VERY NICE HOME WONT LAST... FULLY WATERPROOFED WITH A 25 YEAR WARRANTY THRASHERS ( Bix) ......UNFINISHED LOWER LEVEL.5000 ALLOWANCE FOR EXTERIOR
Renovations in Final Stages- Brand New Apartments Now Available.Newly Renovated Studio, 1BR, and 2BR Units in a soon to be Renovated Apartment Complex, to be Completed in 2023Property Amenities include a Brand New Fitness Center, A Newly Renovated Laundry Room, On-Site Leasing and Management Office, Free On-Site Parking and An Outdoor Amenity Area with outdoor seating, grills and
Live in historic downtown Burlington, a walkable neighborhood steps away from the riverfront and in the middle of a lively cultural scene. The Mississippi River views and proximity to scenic parks and recreation make Urbane424 an ideal location to live. The Urbane424 apartment complex in Burlington, IA is a modern living space with in-unit features that include private balconies, quartz
Beautiful 1 bedroom 1 bathroom loft apartment in downtown Burlington with a fully built 8x8 private office just steps from the Mississippi and Jefferson Street. Naturally lit and pet friendly unit with tall ceilings, large windows, brand new stainless steel appliances, rounded marble countertops, soft close cabinets, hardwood floors, and in-unit washer/dryer. Single vanity bathroom with luxury
Convenient, affordable 2 and 3 bedroom apartments. Black Hawk Village is a pet friendly community with tons of closet space. It is conveniently located to shopping and restaurants. Black Hawk Village is an affordable and convenient neighborhood in beautiful south central Burlington. Just west of Highway 61 on Mason Road. Our community is made up of single level apartments. All units have a
Coming home should be something you look forward to. At UV apartments we know you're busy, so our goal is to make your life a little easier by providing you with accommodations that have been designed with your daily needs in mind. We strive to help you live your life to the fullest by providing stylish, comfortable, and easily accessible apartment homes. It's important to us that you be able to
Park Madison Apartments – Welcome Home!Charming 1 & 2 Bedroom Pet-Friendly Apartments in Burlington, IACome home to comfort and convenience at Park Madison Apartments! Our well-maintained one and two bedroom units offer everything you need — all just steps from the scenic beauty of Crapo Park.Apartment Highlights:~ Spacious 1 & 2 bedroom layouts~ PET FRIENDLY – bring
Cozy, one-bedroom, one-bathroom cottage style rentals available! These charming homes feature open kitchen/living space and private bedroom and bathroom with ample storage. Enjoy a peaceful setting on the edge of town with easy access to local amenities. Perfect for one or two occupants!
Now Available: Spacious 1 & 2 Bedroom Apartments in Burlington, IA! Welcome to Bel Aire Apartments, your new home sweet home! Nestled in the tranquil neighborhood of Burlington at 301 Bel Aire Ct, our apartments offer the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. Apartment Features:- Water & Trash Included—Enjoy hassle-free living with no extra bills.- Onsite Coin-Op
Welcome to your private oasis in downtown Burlington! This chic 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom apartment boasts an inviting open layout flooded with natural light, showcasing the gleaming stainless steel appliances in the modern kitchen. With the convenience of an in-unit washer/dryer, access to a fitness center, and included parking, this residence offers a perfect blend of style and functionality.
NEWLY RENOVATED EXECUTIVE APARTMENTS FURNISHED AND UNFURNISHED! We offer short and long term leases and the comforts of home while you are away on travel! We are just four minutes away from the Southeast Regional airport and steps away to the Beautiful 18-acre Perkins Park. Enjoy coming home to a quiet home, yet close enough to the heart of our Historic Downtown Burlington! Each
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
