Mason City is a place where people can march to the beat of their own drum. Whether someone wants to go shopping downtown, hike through the city’s 70 miles of trails or explore a free art museum, it’s available here. This community, the largest city in North Iowa with almost 27,000 people, has multiple major employers in industries including healthcare and manufacturing. Mason City was the birthplace of Meridith Wilson and inspired his legendary musical “The Music Man,” and the city counts the North Iowa Band Festival among its popular annual traditions. “The city has a wide variety of different price points, affordability for different people depending on what they’re looking for, how much they can afford,” says Jessica Sears, who’s with Realty ONE Group and is a native of the city.
Mason City residents take pride in their city and their communities.
Downtown Mason City has historic buildings, Central Park, and ample shopping and dining choices.
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Prairie School architechture is common
One of the things Mason City is known for is its abundance of homes with the Prairie School architecture style. A signature style in the Midwest popularized in the early 20th century by architect Frank Lloyd Wright, Prairie School is defined by an abundance of horizontal panels inspired by the region's landscape. In fact, Mason City’s Rock Crest-Rock Glen Historic District holds the distinction of having the highest concentration of Prairie School homes in the world. “There’s a lot of unique architecture, and people from all over the world actually look for certain types of homes like that, depending on the architect,” Sears says.
But buyers can also find bungalow- and gable-front-style fixer-uppers for less than $60,000. Homes in better condition but less than 2,000 square feet sell for $60,000 to $200,000, in the Youngs and South Carolina Acres neighborhoods. Larger options go for anywhere between $200,000 and $800,000, whether one of the classic Prairie School examples in Rock Crest-Rock Glen or a home built in the early 21st century in the Fairways subdivision. The average sale price across the city is $190,000, and homes tend to sell after 41 days on the market, on par with the national average of 44.
Frank Lloyd Wright's Stockman House is a shining example of Prairie School architecture.
Modern homes can be found in developments around the outskirts of Mason City.
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Smithfield and Kraft offer manufacturing jobs
The North Iowa Mercy Health Center, which has 342 beds, is the largest employer in not just Mason City but also Cerro Gordo County. However, Mason City is also home to almost 50 manufacturing facilities for companies including Smithfield and Kraft. “A lot of people work in town,” Sears says. “Due to the low cost of living and good affordability, some people that work remotely live in Mason City, too.”
Mason City is home to a large hospital, MercyOne North Iowas Medical Center.
Kraft Heinz has a large factory and employs many Mason City residents.
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Evans Preserve extends trail system
Mason City’s park system extends several hundred acres, and includes 57 miles of trails. “A lot of people like to do recreation,” Sears says. “So hiking, mountain biking. The city just invested a lot of money into new biking trails.” Mason City opened a new singletrack portion of its Prairie Rock Trails system in October 2024. Parks include Parker’s Woods, which runs along a portion of Willow Creek, a waterway open to fishing. Lester Milligan Park has 2 miles of trails and, with a location by two ponds, is a spot for both swimming and fishing. The Mason City YMCA offers indoor recreation at cost. The facility has weight and cardio equipment and runs adult and youth sports leagues.
The 2,058-seat Mason City Arena is the largest venue in North Iowa. The area is the home of junior league hockey teams the Mason City Toros and North Iowa Bulls, but also hosts youth and high school hockey games, figure skating, concerts, tradeshows and community events.
The area’s climate includes warm summers and cold winters, with almost 40 inches of snow. Iowa has averaged about 70 tornadoes per year since 2010, according to a Des Moines Register record.
Visitors to Central Park can browse public art and a sculpture of Mason City's favorite architect, Frank Lloyd Wright.
Mason City Arena is home to the Mason City Hohawks, a hockey program with teams in several age groups.
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Main Street Mason City District is a commercial hub for North Iowa
Part of Mason City’s status as the biggest city in the region is that it’s also the most prominent place for retail in the area. Many of Mason City’s shopping and dining options are downtown, in the walkable Main Street Mason City District. More is available to the west, along Fourth Street, including the Willowbrook Mall, a collection of small businesses like a shoe store and a bakery.
Besides its shops and restaurants, downtown is also home to the Charles H. MacNider Art Museum, which has free admission and is known in part for its collection of Bill Baird puppets. The North Iowa Band Festival — which dates back more than 80 years — includes a parade that marches through downtown each May and is considered the largest free band competition across the Midwest.
The quaint downtown shops give Mason City plenty of character.
The indoor Willowbrook Mall is one shopping destination in Mason City.
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Mason City Transit helps keep residents moving
Mason City Transit is a public transportation bus system that operates Monday through Friday. Interstate 35 connects to the state capital, Des Moines, about 120 miles south. The Mason City Municipal Airport has flights into Chicago on United Airlines.
Newman Catholic School is a highly rated private option
The area’s Mason City Community School District carries a C-plus rating on Niche and includes a couple of B-rated campuses in Jefferson Elementary and Roosevelt Elementary.
Newman Catholic School is a private option that earns a B-plus grade on Niche and is in the top 10 of the site’s list of the best Catholic high schools in the state. But Newman isn’t limited to the high school level — it serves more than 500 students from kindergarten through 12th grade.
The North Iowa Area Community College is based in Mason City. The two-year college offers the opportunity for guaranteed admission to Buena Vista University with a completion of an associate’s degree.
Mason City High School serves around 1,000 students in grades 9-12.
Just east of Mason City is North Iowa Community College, a popular secondary education choice for the area.
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Crime
Mason City experienced a 9% increase in overall crime from 2022 to 2023, according to Iowa Department of Public Safety stats. The city’s rate of property crime is higher than national levels, according to the FBI Crime Data Explorer.
Written By
Wayne Epps Jr.
Photography Contributed By
Drew Davis
Video By
Joan Wall
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Mason City, IA sell after 50 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Mason City, IA over the last 12 months is $169,500, up 4% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
2-story home situated on 3 lots offering extra outdoor space and flexibility! This 4-bedroom, 1-bathroom home features natural woodwork, refinished hardwood flooring, and a spacious attached 2-stall garage. The current owner has completed several updates including refinishing the main floor hardwood floors, replacing some windows, painting the kitchen cabinets, removing wallpaper, and fresh paint
Charming 2-bedroom, 1-bath home featuring durable steel siding and plenty of potential. Step inside and appreciate the character throughout, including the beautiful original wood front door and unpainted wood trim surrounding the windows, preserving the home's timeless charm. The main floor features a bright, finished sunroom, perfect for plant enthusiasts, a home office, reading nook, or
Welcome home to this charming 2-bedroom, 1-bath property offering comfortable living and plenty of potential on two full lots! Step inside to a bright and inviting living room that flows into the spacious eat-in kitchen featuring ample cabinet and counter space. Two generously sized bedrooms provide comfortable retreats, while the full bath is conveniently located. Outside, enjoy a large backyard
85.25 acres, m/l, located within the city limits of Mason City, Iowa on the south side of 12th St. NE.This level to moderately sloping farm has 42.11 FSA/Eff. crop acres with a CSR2 of 47.10.This property has great development potential within the city limits of Mason City. Contact agent for a planned unit development plat.
Move right in and start enjoying this charming 3-bedroom home! From the moment you walk through the door, you'll appreciate the warm, welcoming atmosphere and functional layout. The kitchen features ample cabinetry, generous counter space, and a dining area that's perfect for everyday living. All appliances included. The impressive upper-level primary suite provides a private retreat with a 3/4
This well-kept home offers a warm, inviting interior with thoughtful updates and practical living spaces throughout. The main living area features attractive wood-look flooring, neutral paint tones, and an open layout that creates a bright, comfortable feel. A welcoming entry includes bench seating with storage and a wall organizer for added style and function. The main level also features a
SOME HOMES WHISPER CHARACTER - THIS ONE MAKES A STATEMENT THE MOMENT YOU PULL UP. Tucked into the sought-after Forest Park neighborhood, this home blends timeless craftsmanship with thoughtful updates & flexible living. Inside, fresh new carpet stretches across the main floor, complementing the warmth of original hardwood floors and the charm of classic built-ins surrounding the fireplace. The
Meticulously maintained starter home! Home features two spacious upstairs bedrooms with ample closet space, a recently renovated main-floor bathroom with laundry, and brand-new kitchen appliances. Situated on a nearly half-acre lot, the property includes a detached double garage, storage shed, and spacious back deck. Both the home and detached garage feature brand-new roofs installed in 2026.
Escape to your own private paradise. This rare 158-acre property offers the ultimate retreat for water lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. A 512 SF lakeside cabin with large deck sits just steps away from a sandy beach and clear waters. Cast a line into waters known for excellent fishing. The property features two private boat ramps for seamless water access with enough land area for future RV site
Prime residential lots for sale in Asbury 8th Subdivision. Asbury is a well established subdivision with pathways, playgrounds and mature landscaping adjacent to the newly platted lots. Area is close to schools, east side shopping and only minutes form central downtown district. Larry and Zelda Elwood have a vested interest in this property and are licensed realtors in the state of Iowa.
COUNTRY CHARM WITH IN TOWN CONVENIENCE!! WELCOME HOME TO THIS SPACIOUS 5 BDRM BUILT IN 2010! Offering the perfect blend of comfort, space and outdoor living. Nestled in a picturesque country setting right in town, this property provides the peaceful atmosphere you've been looking for while keeping you close to everyday conveniences! Kitchen with abundant cabinetry and counter space! The generous
**APPLY NOW** Visit our website (link on listing)SPECIAL - There is NO application fee when the application is completed on our website. Rental application (at no cost) is required before a showing. Units are spacious and in great condition. We take great pride in our community, and it shows in how well it's maintained. Internet service is available upon move in. No waiting for hookup.
Welcome to The River in Mason City, Iowa.Discover modern living in the heart of downtown Mason City. The River offers thoughtfully designed studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, along with two- and three-bedroom townhomes, providing flexible layouts for a variety of lifestyles.Each home features in-unit washers and dryers, walk-in closets, air conditioning, and private
Welcome to The Meadows – Your Home in the Heart of Clear Lake, IAThe Meadows offers the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and community in one of Clear Lake's most desirable residential areas. Our spacious apartment homes feature thoughtfully designed layouts, modern finishes, and all the essentials that make everyday living easy. Whether you're relaxing inside your home or enjoying
All apartments have their own entrance and patio for additional out door living space. All of the furnishings in the apartments are new. This complex is located on a dead end which means no traffic. It sits on 7 acres of park like setting with mature trees and plenty a yard space. Private off-street parking, completely remodeled laundry facility featuring new washers and dryers. All new entry
Regency Apartments is an affordable, three-story, 40-unit community for older adults (62+) with several apartments equipped to accommodate mobility impaired adults who are over the age of 18.This community is located within walking distance of many banks, shopping areas, and medical facilities in Mason City, Iowa.
Welcome to The Delaware, a premier living destination in Mason City, IA!This apartment complex offers a host of amenities designed for a modern, convenient lifestyle. Each unit is equipped with in-unit washer and dryers, stainless steel appliances, LVP flooring, and carpeted rooms, all finished with sleek, contemporary touches. The Delaware has private underground parking options
Our Efficiency Apartments feature a kitchenette with new cabinets and counter, a full size fridge and apartment size stove. The living area is 15' x 15' with a double and a single closet. Standing shower, vanity and toilet complete the bathroom. Our one bedroom feature a separate bedroom with 2 double closets as well as a living/dining area and a full bath with a tub shower combo. Each kitchen
Welcome to Federal Ave Rowhomes! Take a look at these brand new 1 and 2 bedroom rowhome-style apartments located in the heart of downtown Mason City! This property places you steps from Fat Hill Brewing, Central Park, and the River City Sculptures on Parade, with Mason City Brewing, Jitters Coffee Bar, the Charles H. MacNider Art Museum, and the world-famous Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Historic
**Section 8 Housing Vouchers Welcome** APPLY NOW on websiteNear the downtown restaurants, stores, churches, hospitals. Plenty of lot and street parking.A coin operated washer and dryer is available most times for convenience. The area is quiet and friendly,well kept and safe. The apartments are clean.
All newly remodeled apartments in 2021! Pilgrim Place is an affordable, non-profit, older adult (62+) community with several apartments equipped to accommodate those who are mobility impaired (also available to those over the age of 18). Pilgrim Place is a three-story, 34 unit community located within walking distance of many banks, shopping areas and medical facilities in Mason City, Iowa.
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