Smalltown living and big amenities in Iowa's first city
For a city of just 60,000 people, Dubuque is known for having big-town amenities and an engaged community. Founded in 1833, the city made a name for itself through its role in the window manufacturing and woodworking industries. While the city has struggled with a changing economy in recent decades, multiple colleges and a bustling downtown have helped to revitalize it as Iowa's 11th largest city. "There are a lot of things to do here, especially for a small town,” says Jared Levy, a local Realtor with EXIT Realty Unlimited who is also a graduate of Dubuque's Loras University. “Between the Mississippi River, the busy downtown and all the colleges, there's a lot of good energy."
Dubuque's population has stayed relatively the same since 1990, as have its major employers. Manufacturing jobs like those found at Andersen Windows & Doors are still among the most common, but institutions like Clarke University and Diamond Jo Casino have also led the way for more employment and healthy growth in Dubuque.
Dubuque is a quiet city with historical architecture and is the 11th largest city in Iowa.
Located on the Mississippi River, Dubuque offers access to the outdoors and historic architecture.
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Historic Dubuque homes in a growing market
Queen Anne, Classical Revival and other historical designs are prevalent in the city's downtown, along the riverfront and the South End. Newly constructed homes have been quickly sprouting up to the west in areas like Asbury and Peosta. "People here like to say that 'Iowa started in Dubuque,' so our homes are still very much colored by that history," Levy says.
The median sales price of homes was $212,000 in 2024, representing a 3% increase from the year before. "When I first started selling homes in 2017, the median was just $170,000, so the market is growing very steadily," Levy says. In price, homes range from older properties with smaller floorplans selling for as low as $150,000 to large, newly constructed properties selling for $700,000.
City zoning preserves properties from the 1800s and early 1900s, so buyers can find homes with intricately designed exteriors that still maintain modern interiors. "You won't find new construction around here with less than 1,800 square feet; they're very spacious," Levy says.
There are many historical residential buildings in Dubuque like this Queen Anne.
Classical Revival homes are a common sight in Dubuque.
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Heading outdoors along the Mississippi River
Framed by the Mississippi River and rolling bluffs that look out towards Wisconsin, Dubuque's natural landscape has garnered the city a reputation for having beautiful and easily accessible outdoor spaces. Dubuque's Park Division cares for over 1,200 acres of parkland in the city and 300 public facilities, including the 44-mile Heritage Trail and The Mississippi Riverwalk.
In a state full of flat prairie land, the bluffs of Dubuque provide a unique vantage point. Residents can find elevated views of the Mississippi River at Eagle Point, or head over to the Fourth Street Elevator to see the steepest and shortest elevator in the world. Mines of Spain State Park is just south of the city, with more than 1,400 acres of wood and prairie land for hiking, birding and cross-country skiing. Eight miles west of Dubuque, Sundown Mountain Resort has 21 ski runs and two terrain parks that are open all winter long.
The Fourth Street Elevator in Dubuque is the steepest elevator in the world.
Mines of Spain just south of the city is a 1432-acre park offers hiking, paddling & picnicking.
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Community gatherings and Iowa's oldest farmers market
Diamond Jo Casino and Q Casino are both major entertainment destinations, with Q Casino undergoing large renovations to add family-friendly attractions like an amphitheater. The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium is also downtown, with various ecosystems, learning exhibits and antique boats available for the public for a fee. "People who come here often tell me that we have a lot of fun public activities, and they're not wrong," Levy says.
Dubuque Farmers Market dates to 1845 and is the oldest farmers market in Iowa. Held every Saturday from May to October around City Hall, the market has more than 60 different vendors and farmers proudly selling locally grown products. Sports fans in the city rally around the Dubuque Fighting Saints, a junior league hockey team, that plays in the 3,000-seat ImOn Arena each winter. “Hockey is a pretty big deal here," Levy says.
Diamond Jo Casino in Dubuque is a major entertainment destination.
The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium in Dubuque has learning exhibits and antique boats.
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Millwork District coming to life as a retail center
Once a center for Dubuque's window manufacturing and woodworking industries, the Millwork District has become a center for shopping and dining in Dubuque. "When I first came here, there were a lot of abandoned buildings, but it's really become a vibrant hub of entertainment, restaurants and shopping," Levy says.
Colorful murals and large glass storefronts now decorate the historic facades of the district's industrial buildings, housing a varied collection of locally owned businesses, restaurants and shops. Brazen Open Kitchen and Bar is a popular Modern American restaurant. Its owner, Kevin Scharpf, is known for competing on Top Chef. Breweries like 7 Hills Brewing Company offer a fun, social atmosphere and in-house drinks.
The Millwork District has become a center for shopping and dining in Dubuque.
Colorful murals and large glass storefronts decorate the historic facades in Dubuque.
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Dubuque Community School District and nearby colleges
Dubuque Community School District serves 10,500 students across 12 different schools, and gets a B-plus rating from Niche. Dubuque Online School is a virtual options for students in middle and high school.
Despite being a small town, the city is home to numerous colleges. Emmaus Bible College, Northeast Iowa Community College and Loras College, Clarke University and the University of Dubuque, are all part of the city. "Most people don't think of Dubuque as a college town, but it kind of is with all the schools,” Levy says. You can pretty much walk between all of them in midtown, so it adds a lot to the city."
University of Dubuque is a highly ranked college located in Dubuque.
Emmaus Bible College is a small university in Dubuque with only about 200 students.
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Commuter times and driving on Route 20
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the average commute time in Dubuque is about 19 minutes, which is under the national average. Route 20 is the city's main thoroughfare, passing through downtown and connecting to East Dubuque in Illinois. The city operates the JULE bus system which has routes throughout downtown.
Dubuque has two large hospitals, Mercy Medical Center and Finley Hospital, both located within minutes of each other. Mercy is the larger of the two, equipped with a medivac helicopter and landing pad. Dubuque Regional Airport is 10 miles south of the city, and Denver Air provides connecting flights to Chicago's O'Hare International Airport.
Important to know
According to FBI Crime Data Explorer, Dubuque's violent crime rates are just over the national average and property crime rates are slightly lower. While violent crimes have risen since 2015, training led by the Dubuque Police Department for neighborhood associations and rental property management has led to a 52% decrease in the rate of property crime.
Dubuque experiences all four seasons, but winters can be harsh, averaging 37 inches of snow annually. As part of Tornado Alley, the risk of tornado damage here is more likely than the national average but less than Iowa's average. Dubuque's Drainage Basin Master Plan helps to guard against flooding from the Mississippi River.
Written By
Bayley Malo
Photography Contributed By
Chris Jeong
Video By
Jacob McAllister
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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On average, homes in Dubuque, IA sell after 30 days on the market compared to the national average of 49 days. The median sale price for homes in Dubuque, IA over the last 12 months is $231,500, up 4% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Majestic views and incredible value! This welcoming community in the Paradise Hills Neighborhood embraces the scenic views and nature with a pond great for fishing, swimming and ice skating. Over 3,700 finished square feet in this newer 4 bedroom, 3.5 bathroom, and 3 car garage home makes it an ideal place to live. Take advantage of an exceptional opportunity to gain instant equity as it is
You are going to love this well-maintained 3 bed, 3.5 bath ranch home combines quality craftsmanship, space, and convenience in a great location. Built to last, it features a solid oak interior that adds warmth and timeless appeal. Enjoy the ease of main floor laundry and a spacious layout designed for comfort. The home has been kept pet-free, ensuring a fresh and pristine environment. Outside,
Charming 1926 Old Style home, this 3-bedroom, 1-bath property offers nearly 1,500 sq ft of living space on a generous 10,504 SQFT lot — perfect for outdoor enjoyment, gardening, or expansion. Inside, you'll find a classic layout with original woodwork and character throughout. The home does need a little cosmetic TLC, making it a great opportunity to add your personal touch and build equity.
Looking for room to breathe without sacrificing convenience? This well maintained 3-bedroom, 3-bath home is tucked into a serene, .79-acre wooded lot, offering the perfect blend of peaceful seclusion and everyday comfort. A 2-car attached garage plus a large capped garage offers room for cars, toys, tools, or even your dream workshop setup. The large 4-season room addition off the back is a
Stunning newer home with more features than the average townhome in the area. Main level is spacious with 1682', 2 generous sized bedrooms, stunning kitchen with induction cooktop, pantry, gorgeous counter tops and island. The primary bedroom has full bathroom and walk in closet. Another bonus is the 3 seasons room with easy entry off the living room. The main level also features the laundry and
New Listing!!! Beautiful, Fully Renovated, 1.5 Story Home, Awaiting the New Owner. This Home has so many Updates and New Features, including an Oversized Detached Heated Garage. A Large Beautiful Kitchen, with an Island and a Walk-In Pantry. Step outside to your Fenced In Yard from Your Patio Sliding Doors. Half bath off the Kitchen for your convenience. An addition was added to the second story,
Modern Living on Dubuque’s West End – Penn Place ApartmentsDiscover comfort and convenience at our beautifully updated apartments located on Dubuque’s desirable West End near Pennsylvania Avenue. Choose from spacious 1, 2, or 3-bedroom units featuring modern finishes, central air, and dishwashers for easy living.Enjoy scenic views of a peaceful pond—often visited by local
Welcome to the Marshall M. Walker House....One of the BEST views of Dubuque and the Mississippi River. This historically restored, meticulously maintained Queen Anne-style home was built in 1885. Make this mansion, known as the "Red Lady on the Bluff" your new home. There are 7 bedrooms, 6 bath, updated kitchen with formal dining room, study, living room, etc. There is a beautiful four-season
Eagle Point Townhomes – Live in the Heart of Dubuque’s Historic Point DistrictWelcome to Eagle Point Townhomes, where charm meets convenience in one of Dubuque’s most scenic and historic neighborhoods. These spacious 2-bedroom townhomes offer everything you need for comfortable living—plus some truly unique perks.Each unit features central air, in-unit washer and dryer, and
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