Little Chicago brings 21st century families back home
Sioux City earned the nickname "Little Chicago'' during Prohibition days, when it became a significant seller of alcoholic beverages at speakeasies and gambling parlors, much like those found in The Windy City nearly 500 miles to the east. But today, “the housing market is one thing that Sioux City is definitely known for,” says Barb Maxon, a Realtor with Century 21. “It’s strong and stable."
The top industries in the city of nearly 86,000 are food production and distribution, in the form of Tyson Foods, education, and healthcare. Over the past 10 years, investment has focused on recruiting biotech, agricultural science and information systems companies.
Buffalo Alice is a popular spot for lunch and dinner in Sioux City.
Sioux City locals enjoy shopping and dining at local shops and restaurants.
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Historic cottages, golf course villas and modern condominiums
The median home price of $208,000 is less than half the national norm and reflects a 5% increase over the past year. In the Morningside neighborhood historic homes are common, while Downtown Sioux City offers a mix of new and midcentury condos and century-old townhouses. Homes across the city showcase a variety of prices and styles, from early 20th-century cottages listed from $60,000 to $200,000 and midcentury modern ranch-style homes and split levels from $200,000 to $400,000. Recently built villas overlooking Whispering Creek Golf Course sell for around $500,000. "One interesting thing I often see is buyers who grew up here, worked somewhere else for several years and then decided to come back,'' Maxon says. "Whether they’re returning to have their parents or grandparents help with the raising of their kids, or because the area is relatively safe and traditional, I see a lot of families returning to Sioux City.”
Sioux City condos are dotted throughout the downtown Sioux City area.
Many historic Sioux City cottage homes can be found just north of downtown.
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Investment in the Siouxland Regional Trail System connects the greater community
Sioux City Parks and Recreation maintains 59 parks, miles of hiking and bicycle trails, and outdoor amenities for all seasons. Work is underway to construct the Siouxland Regional Trail System, a 100-mile network connecting the city to Hinton, Merrill and Le Mars. An initial phase opened in late 2024 with the project expected to be done by 2026. State funding and private donations account for the $8.5 million cost.
Stone State Park is the city's largest, overlooking bluffs and ravines of the Big Sioux River. The wildlife sanctuary also overlooks the Loess Hills.
The Floyd River Trail gives Sioux City another way to explore the outdoors.
The Floyd River Trail gives Sioux City another way to explore the outdoors.
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Sioux City Community School District offers 16 public schools
The Sioux City Community School District receives a B-minus from Niche and manages 16 schools. With a B-grade from Niche, Siouxland Community Christian School is the only comprehensive and accredited Christian school in the area. Morningside University, a small private Methodist four-year college, is in the city, as is Briar Cliff University, a private, liberal arts Catholic university. Western Iowa Tech Community College, with about 3,000 students, has five campuses, with its main campus in Sioux City.
The Sioux City Community School District offers 16 public schools.
Sioux City students can move on to higher education like Western Iowa Tech Community College.
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Farmers markets, malls and museums welcome diners and shoppers
Southern Hills Mall, off Interstate 129, is the area’s largest. With more than 60 retailers, it also offers Mexican and Asian eateries, Red Lobster and several professional services. From early May to late October, the Sioux City Farmers Market brings vendors from the larger Siouxland area.
The Sioux City Public Museum, known for its local history displays, recently received a $20,000 grant to expand its exhibits. At the LaunchPAD Children's Museum, play-based exhibits educate and entertain children. Set inside a dry-docked towboat, the Sergeant Floyd River Museum outlines the shipping history of the Missouri River and the Lewis and Clark expedition.
The Southern Hills Mall and surrounding shopping centers provide residents with a wide range of options in Sioux City.
The Sioux City Public Museum is one of many entertainment options in Sioux City.
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Mild traffic and bicycle lanes make getting around easier despite growth
While most residents will use cars to get around, Sioux City Transit provides 11 bus routes with more than 500 stops. Siouxland Regional Transit System offers public transportation to the larger metro area, including handicapped-accessible vehicles to hospitals, medical centers, shopping and workplaces. Major highways include Interstate 29, U.S. Highway 75/60 and Highway 20. Sioux Gateway Airport is 8 miles south of downtown and offers daily flights to Chicago and Denver. Bicycle lanes are easy to find in city parks, along the Missouri River, downtown, and along Floyd Boulevard.
MercyOne Siouxland Medical Center is the largest hospital in the city.
Minor flooding risk and declining crime rates
According to First Street Technology, Sioux City has a minor flood risk. The most flood occurred on June 24, 2024, when the Missouri River crested at 32 feet. Several businesses were damaged or destroyed. The historic flood affected five counties along the Siouxland area from Sioux City north to Rock Valley.
Since 2020, Sioux City’s reported rates of violent and property crimes have been somewhat higher than the national and state average, according to FBI data. However, rates of violent crimes have declined slightly since 2021.
From conferences and trade shows to statewide tournaments and festivals
The Seaboard Triumph Foods Expo Center welcomes athletes and fans to its 80,000 square-foot arena, an indoor turf sports field and a conference center. Trade shows, agriculture events and community expos are a few celebrations held here annually. The Siouxland Showdown is a Midwest destination for a two-day volleyball tournament each February. Out-of-town guests can find fun and accommodations at the Hard Rock Hotel, 2 miles west. The South Sioux City Marriott Riverfront is an upscale riverfront hotel with casual and semi-formal dining options, an outdoor pool and riverfront walking trails. Saturday in the Park, one of the largest outdoor music festivals in the upper Midwest, is held at Grandview Park Municipal Bandshell and attracts nearly 50,000 people from all over the region.
Sioux City flocks to the Tyson Events Center to enjoy national shows, sports and much more.
The Sioux City Convention Center hosts events of all kinds for locals.
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Written By
Sarah Albiston
Photography Contributed By
Seth Johanson
Video By
Patrick Johnson
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Juan Garcia,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Sioux City, IA sell after 52 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Sioux City, IA over the last 12 months is $215,000, up 36% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome home to this thoughtfully updated split style 3-bedroom, 3-bath property offering comfort, functionality, and modern style. The main level features an open and inviting living space with beautiful hardwood floors, large windows for natural light, and a seamless flow into the dining area. The updated kitchen is a standout, featuring stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, modern
Welcome home to this inviting Morningside gem, where space, comfort, and everyday livability come together. Step inside from the newer deck and you are greeted by a bright, open living and dining area - perfect for gatherings, movie nights and hosting friends. Kitchen features clean white cabinetry, a brand new sink (2025) and easy access to the fully fenced, flat backyard - ideal for kids, pets,
Private setting on over 3 1/2 acres with beautiful hilltop view of both sunrise and sunsets. Well built "liteform" home offers lower insurance and lower heating and cooling costs.. and more. The main floor features a formal living room with vaulted ceilings and a fireplace, a spacious kitchen with an island and ample counter space, a formal dining room, and a sunroom that opens to a private deck.
Great Potential – 4 Bed, 1.5 Bath Home on the Northside! Welcome to 2306 Douglas St, Sioux City, IA – a property full of potential and waiting for the right buyer to complete the finishing touches and make it their dream home! This spacious home offers 4 bedrooms and 1.5 bathrooms, making it perfect for investors. Major updates have already been completed, including a new roof, new AC unit, new
Check out this large (0.85 acre) residential building lot with established trees and lots of privacy. Buyers/Buyers Agent must do own due diligence for all building codes, utilities, right away and public street access.
Here is your chance to own a piece of Sioux City history with this Georgian Mansion. The architect was Howard Shaw from Chicago and the builder was Frank Clark from Sioux City. This home has 3 stories with 8 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, lots of living areas and sits on a half acre lot. As you approach the front there is a brick paver patio leading you to the front door. Entering the foyer you will see
Welcome to 3005 Norman Dr — a spacious 4-bedroom, 2.75-bath home with a functional layout, multiple living spaces, and an inviting backyard oasis. The main level features an expansive living room, a formal dining room, and a well-appointed kitchen with sliding doors leading to the back deck—perfect for outdoor dining or relaxing. You'll find two bedrooms on the main floor, including a generous
Surrounded by lovely landscaping and flowers that have received much love over the years is this 1.5 story bungalow home on a level lot with a fenced back yard. Concrete patio added in 2022. Alley access to a 2 car detached and 1 car detached garage. New garage door and opener 2022 for 2 car garage. Great front porch to enjoy evenings on. Living room/dining room has carpet and built in hutch.
In town acreage, on hard surface street! This 1 1/2 story Bohemian Style stucco home, built in 1920 exudes all the character and charm of that vintage with wood floors and wood trim throughout. Rounded front door to the living room with wood burning fireplace, built in hutch, two french doors to deck, and open to large dining room ready to entertain guests. Kitchen was updated with 5 burner gas
Great opportunity to own an up/down duplex right here! The main level has 2 bedrooms, a full bath and access to the attached garage and the basement. THE SECOND LEVEL has a private entrance and is a 1 bedroom, 1 full bath studio style apartment. This level could easily be converted back to make this a single family 1 1/2 story home as well.
Welcome home to this thoughtfully updated split style 3-bedroom, 3-bath property offering comfort, functionality, and modern style. The main level features an open and inviting living space with beautiful hardwood floors, large windows for natural light, and a seamless flow into the dining area. The updated kitchen is a standout, featuring stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, modern
Sought after street location in Singing Hills. This great home on Grayhawk Ridge Drive features two lots: Lot 8 and 9 making for 1/2 acre of yard space for entertaining. Part of the back yard has 18 x 35 sport pool with vinyl liner, and vinyl fencing surrounds this area. The other lot is wide open for your imagination. Curb Appeal: Front exterior is brick and stone with covered front porch.
Custom Built One Owner home with fantastic floor plan. Covered front porch, and stone front. Open living room, dining room and kitchen combination, with 10' ceilings. Engineered flooring entry way, dining room and kitchen. Dura Ceramic flooring in living room with rough in for gas fireplace. Kitchen: By Modern kitchen with soft close doors, granite counters, pantry, all appliances stay, island.
1513 S Fairmount Street presents a versatile real estate opportunity on a 0.24-acre lot in Sioux City. This residence includes 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, offering functional living space with the potential for personalization. With its size and location, the property is well-suited for buyers seeking either an entry-level home or a solid investment option. There are tenants occupying the
Welcome to 3200 Grandview Blvd — a warm and lovingly cared-for raised ranch home filled with comfort and simple charm. Featuring a new roof in 2024, this home offers peace of mind along with beautifully maintained spaces. The bright living room welcomes you with natural light, while the updated kitchen showcases rich cabinetry, subway tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, and a spacious
Welcome to Badgerow Flats, a premier luxury living experience in the heart of historic downtown Sioux City. Located within an iconic art deco building, each one-bedroom apartment combines timeless elegance with modern convenience. Featuring open-concept floor plans, stainless steel appliances, and in-unit washer and dryers, these residences are designed for both comfort and style. Enjoy
100 and 103 Virginia Square were both historic warehouse buildings that have been converted into apartments. These two buildings feature original brickwork, exposed ductwork, and high-end finishes which capture the modern-industrial design of the building. 101 Virginia is a newly built apartment building featuring exposed ductwork and high-end finishes. This apartment community is conveniently
Welcome home to the newest luxury multifamily community in Sioux City. Located in the prestigious Sunnybrook area, District 42 offers you a haven to come home to. With our spacious and inviting studio, one, and two bedroom apartment homes and our two and three bedroom townhomes, you’ll have no trouble finding the perfect layout to fit all your needs. Each apartment home has been created with your
$1,200 - $2,340 per month
Benson Lofts - Live the Lifestyle you have been dreaming of in our Luxury 1 & 2 Bedrooms
Interior Units SpecialLease a 2BR / 2BA interior unit and receive your first month rent FREE with a 12-month lease.Same-Day Application Bonus (Select Vacant Units)Apply the same day you tour and enjoy:Application fee credited toward rent at move-in$200 setup fee waived$500 off your first month’s rentValid with a 12-month lease.The same-day application
Located in the heart of Sioux City, Glen Oaks by Broadmoor flaunts an array of restaurants, shopping, entertainment and more nearby. But with community amenities aplenty like a private pool, 24-hour fitness center, sports courts and clubhouse, you might prefer staying home. We dont blame you. Each one- or two-bedroom apartment comes standard with a full-sized washer and dryer, private
Welcome to Morningside Lofts, the newest apartment community near Morningside University in Sioux City, Iowa. Experience modern living with a range of 2 and 3-bedroom layouts to suit your lifestyle.Each home comes equipped with essential kitchen appliances like a refrigerator, microwave, stove, and dishwasher, along with the added convenience of in-unit laundry, making your daily life
Discover modern living, endless views & backyard convenience at 48 South. Located along Southern Hills, our apartments for rent offer a sleek, high-end design with your comfort in mind. Large windows provide great natural light and give you endless views. With over a hundred restaurants, retail stores and recreational activities with minutes of 48 South, convenience is in your
$1,495 per month
Woodland Hills Townhomes – Comfortable & Convenient Living in Sioux City!
Same-Day Application Bonus!Apply the day you view the property and enjoy your application fee credited toward rent at move in, a waived $200 setup fee, and an extra $500 off your first month’s rent. Offer valid with a 12-month lease.Located at 1800 Indian Hills Dr, Sioux City, IA, Woodland Hills Townhomes offers a welcoming, pet-friendly community with thoughtfully designed homes and
Marvel in the perfect fusion of style and comfort at Urbane 1220, a luxury apartment community, offering the sophistication of apartment living in downtown Sioux City, Iowa. Inside our vibrant, pet-friendly community, you can expect stainless steel appliances with beautiful two-tone deep blue and white kitchen cabinetry, and floating shelves. For a redefined lifestyle set at the center of a
Welcome to Indian Hills Apartments, where convenient, affordable apartments and friendly staff await you! Nestled into a quiet, residential neighborhood of Northern Sioux City, Indian Hills residents enjoy some of the city's best entertainment, shopping, dining, and schools, mere blocks from their apartment. Easy access to Interstate 29 and Unity Point Medical Center, as well as excellent
Come home to a peaceful, pet-friendly community. Make memories at our playground and sports court in the comfort of your own backyard. Enjoy the fresh air on your balcony with a scenic view. Our community is located near U.S. Highway 75 and Interstate 29, giving you quick access to shops, restaurants, entertainment, and more. Schedule a tour today and come home to East Edge Apartment Homes!
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