$203,662Average Value$122Average Price per Sq Ft53Homes For Sale
A culturally diverse, deep-rooted south Iowa community
Tucked into Iowa’s southeast corner, Fairfield is a self-sufficient community surrounded by farmland. Cambridge Investment Research, one of the country’s largest independent broker-dealers, anchors a solid financial services industry alongside education, healthcare and manufacturing. Sustainability is also a focus here, from permaculture sites to a 1.1 million-watt solar field powering a third of Maharishi International University’s electricity.
Downtown restaurants and shops represent a wide variety of cultures. Michaela Mclain, longtime local and sales associate with Village Realty, says there are multiple layers to the dynamic nature of the town. “Before the 1970s, it was just like any other good, old-fashioned Iowa town,” she says. “That culture is still rooted here, but over the last 55 years, it’s been integrating with the extra diversity that’s come in from the university. It’s created a very unique and special place.” Fairfield was the epicenter of the Transcendental Meditation movement in the United States, and two giant gold meditation domes stand amid the university campus on the north side of town.
Fairfield residents take pride in their town and their smaller communities.
The gridded streets of central Fairfield feature older homes where neighbors know each other.
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Fairfield’s early-1900s core, mansions and Vastu homes
The median home price in Fairfield is around $180,000, far below the national median. “We have a very mixed bag of super old houses, some that have been renovated beautifully and some that have not,” Mclain says. “And we have a lot of really nice mansions that have been sprinkled throughout.” At the town center are early-1900s bungalows and folk-style homes, some converted into duplexes. Ranch-style homes and split-levels line winding streets farther out, and acreage increases drastically on the outskirts. Many of the newest homes adopt east-facing Vastu architecture in university villages or secluded lots. Iowa Department of Public Safety data shows that crimes against people in Fairfield increased slowly from 2019 to 2023, while crimes against property fell dramatically over the same period.
Many historic homes in Fairfield have been kept up or renovated.
The Vastu-style of homes in Fairfield all face east, an important principal in the culture.
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Downtown Fairfield and Business Route 34
Family-owned restaurants and small businesses look out over Central Park in the downtown square. “It differs from the surrounding towns because we have lots of Indian food, Thai food and authentic Mexican restaurants,” Mclain says. Most of the city’s fast food and chain options are along Business Route 34 through the town center, along with the local Walmart and Hy-Vee.
Downtown Fairfield features many historic buildings that all have their own unique style and charm.
Walmart is a convenient stop for shoppers on the west side of Fairfield.
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Perusing the Art Walk or taking a seat at the Sondheim
The Fairfield First Fridays Art Walk brings downtown to life through each season, from hot, humid summers to cold winters. “Some of the local businesses and galleries have art where people walk around from exhibit to exhibit,” Mclain says. “There’s also usually music playing in the gazebo on the town square, and there’s lots of vendors with food, crafts, and art.” Mclain says another leg up for the community is the multi-use Fairfield Arts and Convention Center, which includes an art gallery, meeting spaces and the the 522-seat Stephen Sondheim Theater for the Performing Arts. “It gives our town the ability to host national acts and larger conventions,” she says. Patrons trade theater seats for folding chairs during the free Summer Outdoor Concert Series, which takes place right outside the convention center.
Fairfield Arts & Convention Center hosts recurring programs and rotating arts exhibits.
Central Park's gazebo hosts live bands during Fairfield First Fridays, a monthly town get-together.
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Grade schools and higher education in Fairfield
The Fairfield Community School District covers most of Jefferson County and scores a C from Niche. Kids attend one of two elementary schools between first and fourth grade before heading to Fairfield Middle School and Fairfield High School. The Maharishi School is a tuition-based option for prekindergarten through 12th grade, with a boarding school program for Grades 8 through 12. Niche ranks the school at No. 1 for Best Private K-12 Schools in Iowa. Maharishi International University serves a student body representing dozens of countries each year. Both schools center Transcendental Meditation within their curriculum.
Fairfield High School serves over 300 students in grades 9-12.
Maharishi International University attracts students from around the country and around the world.
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Hopping on the Fairfield Loop Trail to visit local parks
Many of the city’s parks are access points to the Fairfield Loop Trail, a 16-mile gravel run. Kayaks float on Cedar Creek when it swells in the spring, and Waterworks Park has the largest swimming hole: Bonnifield Lake. “When I want beautiful nature, I tend to drive about 3 miles north of here to Decora, which is part of the Driftless Area,” Mclain says. “It’s got big, beautiful bluffs, and we’ll go camp or get a cabin.”
The winding Fairfield Loop Trail covers 16 miles and encompasses the whole city.
Waterworks Park is a Fairfield natural oasis with a lake, trails, and a playground.
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Getting to work or neighboring Iowa cities
The California Zephyr Amtrak train whistles through Fairfield on its way from San Francisco to Chicago, but the nearest stations are about 20 miles away, in Ottumwa to the west or Mount Pleasant to the east. Fairfield residents are generally car-dependent for daily errands, work commutes and longer trips. Fairfield is equidistant from Quad Cities International Airport and Des Moines International Airport, both over 100 miles away. Meanwhile, Jefferson County Health Center provides medical services from its campus on the south end.
Changing dynamics in Fairfield, from the 1970s to the present day
Many longtime Fairfield residents recall tension between those inside and outside the TM movement, especially during its initial wave from the 1970s through the '90s. "The 'rus' were the gurus, and the 'townies' were the people who didn't meditate," Mclain says. "It was sort of like a West Side Story vibe of, 'Which side are you?'" But as time went on, the mix of backgrounds became an identifier for the city. "We've all gotten married to each other and become friends with each other," Mclain says. "Now we have really cool people here who are well-traveled, smart and spiritually evolved, but also rooted in the land."
Written By
Emma Downes
Photography Contributed By
Drew Davis
Video By
Conar McDaniel
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
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On average, homes in Fairfield, IA sell after 70 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Fairfield, IA over the last 12 months is $177,500, up 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
This enchanting home with 3690 square feet is located on a paved road, minutes from town. Resting on 10.66 acres with captivating views overlooking mature trees, a sparkling pond, and ample yard space. Stepping inside this one-of-a kind home, with a mix of classic charm and modern touches. You'll find beautiful kitchen cabinetry and multiple prep spaces in the heart of the home, with an eating
Welcome to this stunning 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home nestled on 3 acres of countryside, offering both comfort and privacy. Located on a paved road, this property provides easy access while still offering a serene, rural feel. The spacious home features an open floor plan and has been remodeled from top to bottom. Step outside and enjoy the expansive yard, complete with a pool for those hot summer
PRICE FURTHER REDUCED! PLENTY of CURB APPEAL in this 1929 CRAFTSMAN HOME. 9 foot ceilings, lovely original doors, casings, and hardware. 3 beds total: 2 at main level claw-foot tub/shower bathroom between. Upstairs easily made into a cute 30 foot efficiency unit. Already has double-drainer sink, dorm type fridge, and unique Japanese style soaking tub in separate bathroom. Already has its own
Discovered the perfect blend of space, comfort, and convenience with this beautifully updated 5-bedroom, 2-bathroom home set on 3.55 acres. Nestled just off a paved road, this charming acreage offers the peace of rural living with easy access to town. Inside you'll find a spacious layout with modern updates throughout, ideal for both everyday living and entertaining. Main floor has large kitchen,
Welcome to this updated 4-bedoom, 2.5 bath residence ideally situated near Fairfield Middle School. The home features spacious open-concept layout, offering an abundance of natural light and seamless flow between living, dining, and kitchen. Perfect for both everyday living and entertaining. The upper level includes four bedrooms, including a primary suite with private bath. Additional highlights
Check out this charming home located in the center of Fairfield! Located right beside Everybody's Whole Foods. This home offers 3-bedrooms, 1-bathroom with a full basement and newer metal roof. It has abundant character with original woodwork, doors and hardwood floors. Come check out this home today!
Set back on 5.83 this 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom home offers county living right outside Fairfield! Located off a paved road this property is in close proximity to the Fairfield Loop Trail and Jefferson County Park. Built in 2016 this home is move-in-ready with 10ft ceilings in the walkout basement. Check out the lap pool in the basement with a custom painted mural! The main floor features an open
PRICE REDUCED BY $50,000. 2-STORY HIGH QUALITY HOME. Over 3,800 sq. ft. 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, multiple custom cathedral ceilings. Large bright kitchen with center island. Grand formal dining room with bay window french doors. Huge triple aspect living room with fireplace occupies all of the west side of the house. Privately located including an extra lot to the south (2103), and Nady Prairie
This 160-acre m/l property is situated just 5 miles from Fairfield, Iowa. It features a fantastic blend of rolling hills and creek bottoms, offering two income sources from tillable land and CRP (Conservation Reserve Program). With abundant cover and timber, alongside diverse open areas, this land is ideal for nurturing and attracting big bucks.- FSA indicates 15.02 acres tillable,
Mossy EstateMossy Oak Properties Boley Real Estate
If you have been searching for a home with just the right space & ready to occupy then look no further. This 3-bedroom / 1 bath home features new flooring and windows throughout together with a new roof. From the front porch you enter into the open concept with a living room, dining area, & kitchen with great wall space, coat closet & plenty of natural light. The kitchen includes appliances & has
Check out this two-story home on 2 Lots on nearly 1/2 acre in town with hardwood floors & updated kitchen with main-floor laundry. Living room with central fireplace & natural light. Eat-in kitchen has been updated & includes appliances. Back entry provides space for coats & shoes. Laundry room with plenty of space for your freezer or shelving. Full bath completes this level. Upstairs has 3-4
Wonderful family home with 3.5 acres of serene, park-like grounds, all on one level! With five bedrooms and two full bathrooms, this property offers space for everyone to spread out and relax. Warm, finished oak hardwood floors throughout main living areas and a flowing, open layout with 2 sets of French doors to the beautiful backyard. The heart of the home is the large eat-in kitchen, a
Furnished Kensington Park Town HouseThis two-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment features an open, large living room and dining area, plank flooring, granite counters, stainless steel appliances, and a full-size washer and dryer. The large double glass patio doors offer a great view of the rolling wooded grounds, with a private patio for outdoor dining. There are also 3.5 acres of walking trails
Kensington PARK APARTMENTS, UNIT W4 IS A SECOND-FLOOR UNIT . IT HAS LUXURY VINYL PLANK FLOORING AND TWO LARGE DECKS OVERLOOKING PASTURES AND SUNSETS. TWO LARGE BEDROOMS WITH A SURPRISING AMOUNT OF CLOSET SPACE GENERALLY NOT FOUND IN APARTMENTS. THE UNIT ALSO FEATURES ONE BATHROOM. VERY QUIET AND BEAUTIFUL GARDENS SURROUND THE UNIT. LARGE WASHER AND DRYER IN UNIT FOR CONVENIENCE FOR A LARGER
This historic property was once known as Louden Machinery and as the Broadway Building, originally built in 1892, has been brought back to life with an amazing transformation! Completely renovated building! Opening Mid-July! Many apartments to choose from! Studios, One Bedroom, Two Bedroom, and Three Bedroom apartments ranging in size from 450 sq. ft. to 1220 sq. ft., with prices to fit anyone’s
Property Id: 2283425TAX SEASON IS HERE! Ask about our limited-time special and receive up to $4,000 toward your purchase. (Incentive equals up to 5% of the sale price, varies by home. Terms and restrictions apply.)Affordable Home Opportunity! This 3-bedroom, 2-bath mobile home at 200 N 28th St, Lot 89, Fairfield, IA 52556 features 28x76 dimensions. Priced at $65,000, financing is
Property Id: 2363868TAX SEASON IS HERE! Ask about our limited-time special and receive up to $4,000 toward your purchase. (Incentive equals up to 5% of the sale price, varies by home. Terms and restrictions apply.) Affordable home opportunity at 200 N 28th St #12, Fairfield, IA 52556 featuring 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms with a 16x76 layout. This home is priced at $47,500.
Property Id: 2326103TAX SEASON IS HERE! Ask about our limited-time special and receive up to $4,000 toward your purchase. (Incentive equals up to 5% of the sale price, varies by home. Terms and restrictions apply.)Affordable home at 200 N 28th St #44, Fairfield, IA 52556 featuring 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms with a 16x70 layout. Financing may is available. Priced at $32,500 with an
Property Id: 2363970TAX SEASON IS HERE! Ask about our limited-time special and receive up to $4,000 toward your purchase. (Incentive equals up to 5% of the sale price, varies by home. Terms and restrictions apply.) Affordable home opportunity at 200 N 28th St #83, Fairfield, IA 52556. This 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offers a spacious 16x76 layout designed for comfortable everyday
Property Id: 2364099Affordable RV Opportunity! This 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom RV at 200 N 28th St #21, Fairfield, IA 52556 offers a cozy 192 sq. ft. layout. It is available for sale at $9,000 or for rent at $599/month with a security deposit of $1,198.This RV is located in an all-age community with amenities to enhance your lifestyle, including a playground, dog park, and covered
Property Id: 2362557TAX SEASON IS HERE! Ask about our limited-time special and receive up to $4,000 toward your purchase. (Incentive equals up to 5% of the sale price, varies by home. Terms and restrictions apply.)Affordable home opportunity at 200 N 28th St #8, Fairfield, IA 52556 featuring 2 bedrooms and 1.5 bathrooms with a 14x52 layout. This home is priced at $26,500.
Property Id: 2364925TAX SEASON IS HERE! Ask about our limited-time special and receive up to $4,000 toward your purchase. (Incentive equals up to 5% of the sale price, varies by home. Terms and restrictions apply.) Affordable home opportunity at 200 N 28th St #48, Fairfield, IA 52556. This 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home features a 16x76 layout with a functional and comfortable living
Conveniently situated on a quiet street just a few blocks from the square, this fully renovated house has lots of natural light and a peaceful, cozy feel. Features: - Attached garage- Washer/dryer included- Large bay window in living room- Pet friendly ($50 per month)- Non-smoking- Separate utilities
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