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
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Chris Jeong
Video By
Jacob McAllister
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On average, homes in Dubuque, IA sell after 22 days on the market compared to the national average of 57 days. The median sale price for homes in Dubuque, IA over the last 12 months is $368,888, down 4% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Set on the edge of town in a quiet cul-de-sac, this beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offers the perfect blend of convenience and comfort with easy access to Highways 61, 151, and 20, as well as downtown Dubuque. Step inside to a bright, open-concept main level designed for both everyday living and entertaining. The kitchen features quality cabinetry, granite countertops, and a
Located in the highly desirable West End, 968 Barbaralee offers a perfect blend of sophisticated design and modern efficiency. This expansive residence features five spacious bedrooms and 5.5 refined bathrooms, providing ample space and privacy for both family and guests. The heart of the home is the large eat-in kitchen, designed for both casual morning coffee and elegant evening entertaining.
This updated walkout ranch is located in the heart of Asbury and is a great option for a first-time home buyer. The home features 3 bedrooms, including two on the main level and one in the lower level, along with a full bathroom and a 1-car attached garage. The spacious deck includes stairs that lead to the fully fenced yard, ideal for pets, and a storage shed provides additional space. A walking
This charming 2 story Tudor style home with timeless curb appeal features 4 bedrooms, 2 full baths and a 2 car garage. Located on the coveted Southend of Dubuque. The spacious living areas are perfect for entertaining, with a natural flow between rooms that creates a warm and inviting atmosphere for gatherings both large and small. A standout features is the beautiful sunroom, filled with natural
3 bed, 2 bath, 2 car garage, LOTS of updates. Well maintained home with new windows, new kitchen, concrete driveway & patio. Ready to be called home!! 2878 Timberline St. 1400 Sq Ft living area. Multi Level home.
Stop and see this charming 3-bedroom, 1-bath home. This well-maintained property offers comfortable living with a spacious layout, a bright and inviting living area, and a functional kitchen ready for your personal touch. Enjoy the convenience of a 2-car detached garage, perfect for parking and extra storage. This home is close to schools, parks, shopping, and all that Dubuque has to offer. A
This completely remodeled, walkout ranch home, features 4 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms with a 1 car garage. Located in a convenient neighborhood, close to shopping, schools, and more. With a host of brand-new updates including deck, siding, concrete, plumbing and HVAC system, this home is as functional as it is modern. The spacious walkout basement offers even more potential living space. A true
Enjoy peaceful countryside views from this beautifully designed walk-out ranch set on a spacious 1-acre lot with zero-step entry for added convenience. Offering an open-concept, split-bedroom floor plan, the main level features rich hardwood floors and a stunning wall of windows that perfectly capture the surrounding scenery. The living room is anchored by a cozy fireplace with custom built-ins,
Build your dream home in Asbury, the perfect blend of small-town charm and modern convenience. Nestled in a peaceful, well-maintained neighborhood, this parcel provides a fantastic opportunity to bring your vision to life. Enjoy the benefits of a growing community known for its beautiful parks, and welcoming atmosphere. With easy access to shopping, dining, and everyday amenities, you’ll love the
Charm meets efficiency in this beautifully updated home at 1776 Grace Street in Dubuque! Featuring 3 bedrooms and 1.5 baths, this inviting property blends classic character with thoughtful modern upgrades. Enjoy peace of mind and incredible savings with fully paid-off solar panels, keeping your average electric bill around just $25 per month. The home also offers a spacious 2-car heated detached
Great south end location for this nicely maintained 3 bedroom, 2 bath ranch home with a 1 car garage! Features beautiful hardwood floors in the living room and bedrooms, and a finished lower level with lots of finished space. The home has new furnace & CA in 2020, a newer roof, and all newer appliances that stay. There is a 6 foot privacy fence in back and a fully remodeled main bathroom &
NEW SPEC HOME JUST FINISHED WITH A 3 CAR GARAGE! The Spiked Lemonade floor plan features 4 bedrooms, 3 baths and offers generous living/dining/kitchen open living space with a large island. The master bedroom is spacious and the adjacent suite is welcoming with it's double vanity, quartz counters and a custom tile shower! Plenty of closet space with this floor plan including a pantry off the
RECENTLY RENOVATED! Previously Applewood I, Applegate I is in the process of renovating one—and two-bedroom apartments. Age and income restrictions removed, Applegate I is located in a residential neighborhood on the west side of Dubuque and is close to many tri-state attractions and amenities.Applegate I is non-smoking and pet-friendly, but pet restrictions apply. With more than
Miller Companies is proud to present 799 Main, a beautifully renovated 36-unit apartment community in the heart of downtown Dubuque. Blending historic charm with modern luxury, 799 Main offers stylish living spaces designed for today’s lifestyle.Each apartment features sleek finishes, thoughtful layouts, and an inviting atmosphere that makes coming home feel effortless. Step outside your
Modern Living on Dubuque’s West End – Welcome to Penn Place ApartmentsStep into comfort and convenience at Penn Place Apartments, nestled in the heart of Dubuque’s desirable West End near Pennsylvania Avenue. Choose from spacious 1-, 2-, or 3-bedroom apartments designed with modern touches like updated finishes, central air, and dishwashers to make everyday living effortless.Take
The Landings on Cedar Cross offers a variety of styles and floor plans in our BRAND NEW apartment community. Choose from one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments to find the perfect place to call home. The apartments feature spacious, open-concept layouts with a walk-in closet. Lease terms include a one-year option, with month-to-month availability after the first year. Enjoy time in our
NEW NAME, SAME GREAT COMMUNITY! Income Restrictions no longer apply. At Applegate II, formerly Applewood II, there are one- and two-bedroom apartment homes to choose from for those 55 or older. Applegate II is a pet-friendly, non-smoking community. Applegate II is located in a residential neighborhood on Dubuque’s west side and is close to many tri-state attractions and
Eagle Point Townhomes – Dubuque, IAWelcome to Eagle Point Townhomes, where comfort meets convenience in Dubuque’s charming Point District. These spacious 2-bedroom townhomes offer approximately 1,000 square feet of living space, designed to fit your lifestyle.Each home features central air, an in-unit washer and dryer, and an unfinished basement, making it perfect for additional
Welcome to your new home in Dubuque, IA! This townhome-style apartment offers two spacious bedrooms and 1.5 bathrooms, perfect for those who value comfort and convenience.This townhome is equipped with essential amenities such as a dishwasher, central air conditioning, and an in-unit washer and dryer, ensuring a hassle-free living experience.Pet lovers will appreciate our
Modern 2-Bedroom Townhomes – West End DubuqueUpgrade your lifestyle with these stylish 2-bedroom townhomes located in the heart of Dubuque’s West End. Featuring 1.5 to 2 full bathrooms, each unit offers a spacious and thoughtfully designed layout perfect for comfortable living.Enjoy modern kitchens with updated appliances—some with sleek stainless-steel finishes—plus dishwasher,
Lease for Spring/Summer!You will love living in these newly renovated and well soundproofed apartment in downtown Dubuque!Each unit has smart features to control your lights and thermostat from a mobile device. Gigabit fiber internet available. They also have brand new stainless steel appliances (gas stove, microwave, dishwasher, refrigerator with ice and water dispenser),
Spacious 2-Bedroom Apartments on Dubuque’s West End – Radford RoadWelcome home to modern comfort on Dubuque’s West End! These spacious 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom apartments on Radford Road offer everything you need—and more. Each bedroom includes a generous walk-in closet, and both bathrooms are full-sized for added convenience.The modern kitchens come fully equipped with
1182 Locust is located in the old downtown of Dubuque. What's wonderful about this location is you are within walking distance of the best restaurants, library, Farmers Market, Churches, book stores, coffee shops, bakeries, etc. The building itself was completed in 1880 and has tall ceilings and windows, lots of light! This building still has plaster walls, hardwood floors, and is quiet from
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