$188,475Average Value$109Average Price per Sq Ft57Homes For Sale
A small city with a steady population in Northeast Missouri
Legend has it that Kirksville came to be thanks to a turkey dinner and whiskey. Jesse Kirk, the city’s first postmaster, made the offering to surveyors in exchange for naming the city after him in the mid-1800s. Now the county seat of Adair County, Kirksville is home to more than 17,000 residents, a number that has stayed relatively steady since 1980. “People will either move here for work or to retire,” says Elizabeth Gregory, Realtor with Exp Realty, who has lived in the Kirksville area since 1996. “It’s got that small-town feel, but there’s a lot to do and a lot of job opportunities.” Some of the biggest employers include the city’s three colleges, the Kraft-Heinz plant and Northeast Regional Medical Center. Local downtown businesses and community events also add to the city’s small-town feel.
Kirksville is home to over 17,000 residents and was established in 1857.
The Adair County Courthouse is the beautiful centerpiece of downtown Kirksville.
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Home prices below the national median
The median home price in Kirksville is $160,000, about 61% below the national median. “The majority of homes are going to be bungalows near downtown and ranch styles in other neighborhoods,” says Gregory. “We’re also getting newer developments with custom houses. You buy a lot then hire a builder to build your home.” Gregory adds that there’s a lot of land in the countryside and many of her clients purchase that land to build a home with lots of acreage. Those seeking a luxurious lifestyle will find the city’s rural outskirts also have 7,000 to 10,000-square-foot estates ranging from $1.5 million to $1.9 million. Tornado season runs from April to June in Missouri and the surrounding region. Kirksville experiences all four seasons with mild summers and winter temperatures below freezing.
Vinyl sided cottages are a common style of home in downtown Kirksville.
Million dollar Greek inspired homes sit on several acres along the outskirts of Kirksville.
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Holiday celebrations throughout the year
Kirksville has several events throughout the year. The Red, White and Blue Festival is a three-day spectacle celebrating Independence Day. The Red Barn Arts and Crafts Festival celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2024. And the Hometown Holiday event kicks off every Thanksgiving weekend with a parade, followed by ice skating downtown, living window displays and a tree lighting complete with carols from local choirs.
Local shops downtown and big box retailers on Baltimore Street
Downtown Kirksville has a grid-pattern layout, with the Adair County Courthouse standing in the middle and surrounding streets lined with local businesses. “There’s a good mix of retail shops, art galleries, restaurants and a few professional offices,” says Gregory. “Some restaurants like DuKum and Pagliai’s Pizza have been around for decades.” The city’s commercial retail scene is located on the north side along Baltimore Street with several big box retailers and chain restaurants.
The DuKum Inn has served Kirksville residents and visitors since 1938.
Experience the aroma of freshly made pizzas at Pagliai's Pizza in downtown Kirksville.
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From small neighborhood parks to the vast Thousand Hills State Park
About a dozen parks and other recreational spaces are operated by Kirksville Parks & Recreation. They include everyday neighborhood parks with playgrounds and athletic facilities, a 20-mile trail system and an aquatic center with indoor and outdoor swimming. Thousand Hills State Park is about 6 miles out of town. “Most people from Northeast Missouri come to Thousand Hills State Park,” says Gregory. “It’s the biggest draw as far as the outdoors.” The state park is more than 3,200 acres of woods and trails surrounded by Forest Lake.
The Aquatic Center at Rotary Park is the go to spot for summer fun in Kirksville.
The 573 acre Forest Lake is surrounded by the Thousand Hills State Park in Kirksville.
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Public schools, faith-based private schools and three colleges
The Kirksville R-III School District earns a B-plus grade from Niche. All schools are platted right next to each other on the east side of the city. Public kindergarten through eighth-grade students go to the same schools. High schoolers have the option of attending Kirksville High School or Kirksville Area Technical Center.
The city has three faith-based private schools: Mary Immaculate Catholic School, Faith Lutheran School and Northeast Christian High School.
Post-secondary school options include Moberly Area Community College, A.T. Still University, specializing in residential healthcare degrees, and Truman State University. Niche ranks TSU as the second-best college for academics in Missouri, where students can study from 139 undergraduate and 14 graduate programs. The Truman Bulldogs compete in NCAA Division II sports.
The Kirksville School District serves over 2,500 students with an overall grade of B+.
Truman State University offers residents of Kirksville 55 undergrad programs to choose from.
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Highways to Des Moines and Kansas City
U.S. 63 runs 28 miles north to Iowa and 13 miles south to La Plata, where travelers can hop on an Amtrak train. It’s about a 135-mile drive north to Des Moines and 160 miles southwest to Kansas City. Those two cities have the closest international airports. However, Kirksville Regional Airport offers flights to Chicago O’Hare International Airport daily via Contour Airlines.
Five-year plan to reduce crime
Property and violent crime rates are higher in Kirksville than in both the United States and Missouri. In 2023, the Kirksville Police Department implemented a 5-year plan to reduce crime. The initiative includes recruiting more officers, more community involvement and cracking down on drunk drivers. The police department also helps neighborhoods set up neighborhood watch programs.
Written By
Nicolas Stuart
Photography Contributed By
Ethan Babor
Video By
Colleen Carey
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Toni Riekeberg,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Kirksville, MO sell after 68 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Kirksville, MO over the last 12 months is $163,150, up 14% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
This town home located close to AT Still University and Northeast Missouri Regional Hospital is renovated and move-in-ready. An end unit, this home has two bedrooms, one and a half baths, in-unit laundry and an attached garage. The complex also has had exterior updates including new garage doors, new roofs and new front porches. A great investment opportunity. Currently Leased through 5/31/26,
Discover this expansive brick ranch featuring 5 bedrooms and 3 full baths walking distance to Kirksville Schools and Brashear Park. Enjoy a private backyard with a covered deck, perfect for outdoor gatherings. Modern comforts include all-new forced gas heat and an AC unit for year-round climate control. The attached garage doubles as a workshop, ideal for DIY projects. A partially finished
Welcome to your dream retreat in Kirksville, Missouri! This beautifully renovated rustic A-frame home sits on 4 serene wooded acres, just minutes from town. Featuring newer windows, a modern roof, and efficient electric heat & air, this home combines comfort withcharm. Enjoy the fresh ambiance with new sidewalks, an inviting upper deck, and stylish paint throughout. The spacious interior
Lovely neighborhood close to shopping and easy access to Baltimore and to US 63 and outdoor entertaining, making this quaint residence a place you'll be proud to call home. Call Toni Riekeberg at 660-353-9815.
Discover this charming one-level condominium/duplex in Kirksville, featuring new carpet and a dedicated dining room perfect for gatherings. Enjoy the all-season room for year-round relaxation and an attached garage for convenience. The spacious primary bedroom offers a luxurious step-in tub and a generous walk-in closet. With the HOA covering all exterior maintenance, mowing, and snow removal,
Discover this charming 1-bedroom, 1-bath bungalow located at 1513 N Elson in Kirksville, Missouri, set on a large city lot with adjoining lots available for purchase (MLS #26042565). This well-cared-for home offers a cozy living space and is ideally situated close to hospitals, shopping, and restaurants, making it perfect for both comfort and convenience. With ample outdoor space, you have the
This town home located close to AT Still University and Northeast Missouri Regional Hospital is renovated and move-in-ready. An end unit, this home has two bedrooms, one and a half baths, in-unit laundry and an attached garage. The complex also has had exterior updates including new garage doors, new roofs and new front porches. A great investment opportunity, also available Unit 911.
Nestled on 15 partially wooded acres just minutes from Kirksville, Missouri, this stunning home exudes a unique southwest flair. The custom-designed cedar-sided residence showcases meticulous craftsmanship, highlighted by two-story vaulted ceilings that create an inviting atmosphere. Throughout the home, octagonal spaces and wood beams add architectural interest, while an open hand-cut spiral
Attention Northeast Missouri hunters! Offering for sale a hard to find small hunting tract in Adair County, with cash rent return. This farm has a great balance of hunting and income. Bear Creek runs along the north border and is lined with hardwood timber to the south and east. It is 10 minutes to Colton's and hotels at the south end of Kirksville. Don't miss this opportunity to purchase your
Ready to build your new home in Kirskville? Don't miss these vacant lots for sale! Lots 4 & 5 of Blk 4 of Porters Highland Addition. Utilities available on site. Subdivided and ready for new build. Zoned residential. Building Restrictions per Kirksville city planning and zoning. Show at will.
This beautifully remodeled 1-acre property on Highway 63, just north of Kirksville, features four spacious bedrooms and three full baths, perfect for families or those seeking extra room. The fresh updates, including new paint and flooring, create a modern and inviting atmosphere. A standout feature is the large lower-level bedroom and bath addition, offering privacy and convenience. Enjoy the
Investment Opportunity! Renovated and ready for tenants, this is an end unit with two bedrooms, one and a half baths, laundry and plenty of living space. The complex also has been renovated on the exterior including new garage doors, new roofs and new front porches. A great investment property. For more information contact the listing agent, Elizabeth Gregory, eXp Realty, 660.342.3418,
Nestled in the vibrant heart of downtown Kirksville, these refreshed studio, one & two bedroom units welcomes you with brand-new carpet, original hardwood floors and fresh paint throughout.To schedule a showing or fill out an application please visit For inquiries call
Nestled in the vibrant heart of downtown Kirksville, these elegantly refreshed studio and one-bedroom apartments welcomes you with brand-new carpet, or classic hardwood floors with fresh paint throughout.Enjoy super affordable living starting at $415 per month, which includes heat and gas. A perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and value awaits. Click "Apply Now" on the For Rent tab
Large downtown, one bedroom apartment, close to Truman, ATSU, shopping, and restaurants. Newly renovated kitchen and bathroom. Large living room and several closets for storage. Rent $470 includes heat! Deposit $450 + $100 one time admin fee. Water, sewer, trash divided evenly among tenants. Ask about our pet policy.Click "Apply Now" on the For Rent tab of our website - we have many units
4 Bedroom, 2 Full Bath, covered decks front and rearNew Windows, New central heat and central A/CWasher, Dryer, Dishwasher, Garbage Disposal, Refrigerator, Stove provided.Lawn Care provided.Ceiling fans in all rooms where possible.
2 Bedroom, 1 bath house, with a screened front porch, large covered rear deck, 2 car garage, sitting on a double lot. Washer, Dryer, Dishwasher, Garbage Disposal, Refrigerator, and Stove are provided. Lawn care is provided.
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