$187,411Average Value$129Average Price per Sq Ft56Homes For Sale
The Pearl of the Mississippi
As the seat of Muscatine County, the city of the same name can trace its growth to the humblest of creatures: the freshwater mussel. Opened in the late 1800s, the Weber and Sons Button Company made Muscatine the largest pearl button manufacturer in the world, using the opalescent shells of mollusks found in the Mississippi River to create more than a billion buttons a year. This success earned Muscatine the nickname “The Pearl City” and attention from other manufacturers that continues to this day. “There’s a lot of entrepreneurial spirit here,” says Dr. Brad Bark, Mayor of Muscatine. “That, and our cost of living, brings people here from all over.”
Muscatine is built into the river valley hills overlooking the Mississippi River.
Muscatine was named after the fresh water mussel, whose pearls jump started the city.
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The oldest Kraft-Heinz factory in the world
Manufacturing still plays a large role in the local economy, with top employers headquartered there like HNI Corporation and Kent Corporation. "We have the oldest operating Kraft-Heinz in Muscatine," says Bark. "A lot of your ketchup comes from right here." Other major job creators include Muscatine Community School District, Bayer, Bridgestone, SSAB Steel Inc. and Baker US Crop Science. UnityPoint Health, the city's primary hospital, employs over 400 people.
The median price for homes in Muscatine is in the high $100,000s, well below the national median price in the low $400,000s. The area's oldest homes, often built as early as the 1800s, are closer to downtown. Two-story 20th-century houses are typical along the east side of town off University Drive. The area surrounding Muscatine Airport has a large number of midcentury-inspired ranch-style homes.
Muscatine boasts the oldest currently operating Kraft-Heinz factory.
Muscatine's streets are lined with historic homes, including Colonials and Foursquares.
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"The World's Largest Watermelon"
Riverside Park is home to the "World's Largest Watermelon," a 16-by-40-foot watermelon sculpture that weighs over 16,000 pounds and overlooks the Mississippi River, which is boat-accessible through the city's boat slips and ramps. The city's Department of Parks and Recreation also oversees 550 acres of green space and public facilities, and the Trust for Public Land estimates that 66% of locals live 10 minutes or less from a public park.
Riverside Park in Muscatine boasts the worlds largest watermelon sculpture.
Muscatine enjoys several marinas on the Mississippi River, including in Riverside Park.
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Local history at the Pearl Button Museum
Local cultural institutions include the Muscatine Art Center, the Muscatine Center for the Performing Arts and the Muscatine Symphony Orchestra. The National Pearl Button Museum tells the tale of the industry that once dominated the city and the billions of mollusks that made it possible. For over 40 years, every Memorial Day weekend has kicked off the Melon City Criterium, a bicycle race that brings cyclists from all over the Midwest.
The city recently approved a $7 million sports complex for hosting local and touring athletes. "It's going to be the biggest dome in Iowa," says Roos. "That's going to bring a lot of revenue."
Muscatine is proud of its heritage, and features the comprehensive Pearl Button Museum.
The Muscatine Art Center offers a wide array of art collected from the city over the years.
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Locally owned boutique shopping downtown
While big box franchises and grocery stores are throughout the city, retail shopping isn't as common. "That's probably a bit of a sticking point," says Roos. "We don't have great shopping, so people tend to go to Iowa City and Davenport for malls and places like that." Locally owned eateries and boutiques in the city's walkable downtown are another story. "The city has been really diligent in putting money back into the city, renewing the riverfront and getting small businesses and restaurants into town," says Roos.
Flooding is a minor risk in Muscatine, but flooding insurance is required in high-risk areas. "We've had flooding before," says Roos. "It doesn't happen often, though." The city has responded to this danger with a floodwall that protects homes and businesses.
Muscatine families enjoy heading down to downtown to grab a meal or do some shopping.
Muscatine's downtown features several cute little boutique restaurant options.
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Flights from Quad Cities Airport
Highways 61 and 38 are the area's main thoroughfares, and the city rarely has major traffic. The Quad Cities International Airport is 30 miles from Muscatine and has 41 daily flights through four major airlines. The city provides a public transit service called MuscaBus, which travels all over the city on fixed routes from Monday through Saturday.
Nearly 20 public schools
Muscatine Community School District serves the city with 19 schools in the area and a C-plus rating by Niche.
McKinley Elementary School is one of many quality schools found throughout Muscatine.
Muscatine's older students end their primary educations at Muscatine High School.
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Important to know
The Iowa Department of Public Safety statistics show that in 2024, violent and property-related crimes in Muscatine were lower per capita than the national average. Violent and property-related crime dropped between 2023 and 2024.
Muscatine has snowy, wind-filled winters and long, hot summers with a lot of humidity.
Written By
Phil Keeling
Photography Contributed By
Dylan Stowell
Video By
Jeffrey Knight
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Rob McCain,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Muscatine, IA sell after 45 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Muscatine, IA over the last 12 months is $167,500, down 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Spacious 5-bedroom, 3 bath split-level home offering an open concept layout perfect for everyday living and entertaining!!! The main living area flows into the kitchen and dining spaces, while the lower-level family room provides additional room to relax, gather, or host guests. Several updates throughout add comfort and value. Situated on a larger lot, this home shines with outdoor living-
This historic residence, dating back to 1860, presents an exquisite opportunity to own a piece of the past with its 5 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms. The property boasts hardwood flooring, soaring ceilings, and a formal dining room adorned with a stunning chandelier, complemented by both a main staircase and a secondary servant staircase leading to the upper level. A convenient bedroom, 1 full
Charming 3-bedroom, 2-bath home with hardwood floors, butcher block counters, and open shelving in the kitchen. Enjoy the updated wood deck and a detached 2-stall garage. Located in a quiet neighborhood, just a short walk to the golf course and local amenities. Some photos are virtually staged.
Experience the perfect blend of style and function in Whispering Pines! This new construction zero-lot home offers three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a modern open-concept design. The kitchen is designed to impress with an island, stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, and brushed nickel fixtures and hardware. The living room centers around an electric fireplace with a stone surround,
Here is a great building lot in a quiet neighborhood of the Arbor Commons, close to shopping and parks. Dennis Linnenkamp will be the GC in the construction of your new home. The buyer will need to secure their own construction loan and of course will have input on finishes. The home will also have a full 1 year warranty. Appliance warranties may vary in length
Awesome seasonal cottage right on the mighty Mississippi with riparian rights! Yes you can have dock! Breath taking views! Great fishing spot! Grab a book and just enjoy this wonderful retreat. Open concept, great room, kitchen and bedroom are all combined in one large space. Super cool ornate wood burning stove in the middle of it all. Cantilevered front deck covers a patio below. The property
Beautiful 5-bedroom, 4-bath home in the desirable Eagle Ridge subdivision. This property offers 2,989 sq ft above grade plus 1,449 sq ft of finished space in the basement, including a non-conforming bedroom and flexible living areas ideal for guests or additional living quarters.The main floor features a large kitchen with island, formal dining room, spacious living area with fireplace, and main
Investment property or affordable starter home? You decide. This solid 2 bed 1 bath home with a one car attached garage is ready for you to view and make your own.The home currently has a tenant so a 24 hour notice is required for viewing.Don't wait long it will not last!
This split-foyer new construction single-family home features 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and almost 2300 finished square feet. The main level includes LVP flooring in the kitchen, dining, and living room. The home is adorned with white-painted cabinets, trim, and doors, as well as black matte-finished hardware and lighting. There's a deck off the main level dining area and a patio off the family
This split-foyer new construction single-family home features 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and almost 2300 finished square feet. The main level includes LVP flooring in the kitchen, dining, and living room. The home is adorned with white-painted cabinets, trim, and doors, as well as black matte-finished hardware and lighting. There's a deck off the main level dining area and a patio off the family
This newly constructed ranch-style home features a full basement, 4 bedrooms & 3 baths with over 2,200 sqft of living space, along with a 2-car garage. Sit outside and enjoy the weather on your front porch or 18x12 covered deck in the back. The main level showcases luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout the kitchen, dining area, & living room. The kitchen features quartz countertops,
Modern Apartments in the Heart of Muscatine, IADiscover comfortable, modern living in the heart of Muscatine with these spacious 1- to 3-bedroom apartments, offering a variety of floor plans to fit your needs. Whether you're looking for a cozy one-bedroom or room to grow, you'll find a home that suits your lifestyle.Many units feature in-unit laundry for added convenience, while
Located in Muscatine, Iowa, the Welch Hotel Apartments have Efficiency, 1 & 2 Bedroom units for Seniors 55 and older. This pet-friendly community has in-unit washer & dryers, off-street parking, and beautiful kitchens with a fridge, microwave & stove.To be eligible, you must be 55 years or older and your gross annual income must fall below our income limits.
Updated & Cozy 2-Bedroom Apartments on University Drive – Muscatine, IA!Located on University Drive in Muscatine, these spacious and updated 2-bedroom apartments offer comfort, style, and everyday convenience in a cozy setting. Each home features central air, dishwashers, over-the-range microwaves, and either a private deck or patio for outdoor relaxation.Enjoy the ease of in-unit
Cobblestone Apartments – Comfortable Living in the Heart of MuscatineWelcome to Cobblestone Apartments, where comfort meets convenience in the heart of Muscatine, Iowa. Nestled directly across from the scenic Weed Park, our pet-friendly community offers beautifully designed 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom apartments with spacious open floorplans to suit your lifestyle.Each unit
This is the Historic Simon Stein Mansion in Muscatine's Residential West Hill Historic District. One block from the downtown Shopping and Entertainment district where restaurants, coffee shops, bars and shopping is available. And one block away from the Mississippi River and our Parks and Recreation trail system for biking and walking, boat launch, picnic and playground areas.
301 W. 2nd. Street is the Simon Stein Mansion in Muscatine's West Hill Historic District. All apartments include utilities, cable, WiFi and weekly housekeeping. There is a laundry room for the use of clients free of charge. We offer a Month to Month Rental Agreement and all units are fully furnished and decorated. The building is located one block from the River Front Recreation Area
Muscatine, Iowa. Two bedroom, one and a half bath apartment for rent. All appliances are in the unit including your own private washer and dryer!, dishwasher, stove, fridge, and microwave! Has new windows, high efficiency furnace and central air conditioning.Private entrance, upstairs apartment. The building is older but the apartment has been updated and has been well taken care
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