$191,011Average Value$137Average Price per Sq Ft61Homes 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
Tim Hernandez,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Muscatine, IA sell after 51 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Muscatine, IA over the last 12 months is $183,500, up 15% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
New Split-Foyer Home with Modern Design and Quality Construction This newly built split-foyer home offers 4 BR, 3 BA, & nearly 2,300 sq. ft. of finished living space. The main level features LVP flooring through the kitchen, dining, and living areas, plus white-painted cabinets, trim, & doors accented by black matte hardware & lighting. Enjoy a deck off the dining area & a patio off the family
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Very solid 4 bed, 2 bath home. Large rooms, tons of storage and possible hardwood floors depending on the condition after the carpet is removed. This home has a lot of potential with a minor amount of cosmetic upgrades.Large yard with a great front porch and front porch swing. Walk out basement and a two car attached garage.Since this is an estate, the home is being sold as-is
This thoughtfully designed new-construction home blends style, space, and functionality, with exceptional quality throughout. Offering 5 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, the home features two private ensuite retreats with double vanities, as well as a luxurious primary suite with a fully tiled shower and tiled flooring. The spacious, modern kitchen is the heart of the home, complete with a large island,
Discover this beautiful zero-entry home featuring four bedrooms, three baths, and a layout designed for modern, flexible living. The main-level primary suite offers dual vanities and a walk-in tiled shower for everyday luxury. Enjoy an inviting open-concept design with vaulted ceilings over the living and dining areas. The spacious kitchen includes a large quartz island, stainless steel
This newly constructed ranch-style home features a full basement, 4 bedrooms & 3 baths, over 2,200 sq ft of living space, and 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, white-painted
Discover this beautiful zero-entry home featuring four bedrooms, three baths, and a layout designed for modern, flexible living. The main-level primary suite offers dual vanities and a walk-in tiled shower for everyday luxury. Enjoy an inviting open-concept design with vaulted ceilings over the living and dining areas. The spacious kitchen includes a large quartz island, stainless steel
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
Welch Hotel Senior Apartments offers affordable 55+ living in the heart of downtown Muscatine, Iowa. Set within a beautifully restored historic building, this community blends timeless character with the comfort of updated apartment homes and refreshed common spaces. Recent property improvements include new flooring, updated heating and cooling systems, and enhancements throughout the
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
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
1 BedroomLiving room, efficient kitchen, full bath, and plenty of closet space.On site coin operated washer/dryer available in building.Off street parking.A small stove and refrigerator included.Near Muscatine High School, YMCA, and the Post Office.NO Pets/NO Smoking/NO Section 8.Tenant responsible for utilities, all electric.Security deposit and 1st. month's rent
Now Available Spacious 2 Bed, 1 Bath Apartment in Muscatine! Looking for your next place to call home? Check out this spacious 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom apartment located at 2424 Park Avenue, Muscatine, IA! Enjoy a comfortable layout with plenty of space to relax, entertain, and make your own. Conveniently located near shopping, dining, schools, and everyday amenities, this apartment offers the
*Available End of July* Freshly updated 2 bedroom apartment with a bright and spacious dine-in kitchen. This apartment is located in the West Hill Historic District. Enjoy easy access to the Muscatine downtown and riverfront park amenities. Washer Dryer hookups in the apartment. Washer and dryer units available for lease. Garage space available for lease.$785 base rent $105 Heat,
Looking for a place to call home without the pressure of traditional financing or renting? This spacious 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom mobile home is a wonderful opportunity for a family ready to put down roots.The home has been owner-occupied and is in good condition, featuring newer flooring in the great room and bathroom. The kitchen offers ample storage, generous counter space, and natural light —
This small corner lot property features two bedrooms and a larger living room. The washer and dryer will stay with the home and is on the main floor. All utilities will have to be paid by the tenant. $800/month rent with an $800 Damage Deposit
*Available early September*Bright one bedroom apartment. Close to Muscatine hospital and easy commute to either downtown or north side of town. Less than 1 mile to Muscatine YMCA, Muscatine Arboretum, and riverfront park. Off street parkingHeat included AC On-site coin laundry.No Pets/ No smoking
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