$94,559Average Value$64Average Price per Sq Ft6Homes For Sale
Historic and ever-changing near downtown Waterloo
People, architecture and houses of worship define Church Row, a historic but ever-changing community close to downtown Waterloo and the John Deere facility. As the name suggests, the neighborhood has a dense cluster of faith organizations formed in the 19th and early 20th centuries. “It is a very attractive neighborhood for families, for renters and buyers,” says Travis Kraus, who led the Church Row Neighborhood Plan. He serves as an associate professor and the director of the Iowa Initiative for Sustainable Communities at the University of Iowa.
Church Row boasts historic faith organizations rooted in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Church Row in Waterloo offers historic homes in a peaceful, central location.
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Turn-of-the-century homes in need of repairs
In Church Row, “some houses are just huge,” says Rick Bauer, a lifelong Waterloo resident and broker and owner of Re/Max Home Group. “When you have a town that’s as old as Waterloo, the wealthy doctors, attorneys, bankers lived near downtown where they could ride their horse or walk there.” Buyers here will find grand Victorian homes, brick rowhouses and American Foursquares from the turn of the 20th century in varying states of repair. “Close to downtown has turned into a lot of rentals, though there’s been some redevelopment of properties,” Bauer says. Prices here can start around $50,000 for a townhouse or two-bedroom fixer-upper, while renovated three-bedroom builds rarely exceed $140,000.
Brickrow homes on Church Row blend classic design with the cozy charm of the neighborhood.
Grand Victorian home in Church Row exudes timeless elegance in a prestigious setting.
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Addressing housing insecurity in Church Row
Housing insecurity is an issue here, with 54% of residents paying more than one-third of their income on rent, according to data from the Church Row Neighborhood Plan. “You can see a significant shift from predominantly owner-occupied to renters,” Kraus says. “That changes the character of the neighborhood and also the types of resources available to that neighborhood.” Church Row community members and housing advocates are creating opportunities for homeownership and striving to enhance livability. “Habitat for Humanity has done a terrific job in some of our more challenged areas,” Bauer says. “And there is a good community effort to work on these Habitat houses and help people become homeowners.” He says local faith groups and businesses often volunteer to build houses for lower-income families in the area. As of spring 2024, Iowa Heartland Habitat for Humanity had built or rehabilitated more than 60 homes in the Church Row and Walnut neighborhoods.
Enjoy the classic charm of Church Row in Waterloo’s quiet streets.
Church Row features a charming mix of architectural styles in a quaint neighborhood setting.
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Education and play in the Grout Museum District
Church Row’s Washington Park has been a tranquil green space since the mid-1800s. The park offers shaded spots to read or picnic in the grass, as well as a Japanese-style gazebo. Elks Memorial Park has the closest playground, as well as a basketball court. Neighborhood kids and lifelong learners enjoy proximity to several historic and educational sites, part of the Grout Museum District. The Bluedorn Science Imaginarium has hands-on science exhibits meant for young children, the Sullivan Brothers Iowa Veterans Museum tells military history through local perspectives and the adjoining Grout Museum of History and Science has a popular planetarium show.
The Japanese-style gazebo at Washington Park is a unique spot to enjoy the park's charm.
Discover military history with a local twist at Church Row's Sullivan Brothers Museum.
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Specialty grocers and proximity to downtown Waterloo
Residents here are a couple miles from Hy-Vee, the closest big-box grocery store, though there are a handful of smaller, locally-owned markets within and near the neighborhood. Home cooks can find pan-Asian and some African and Caribbean goods at Hornbill Asian Market or head across U.S. Route 218 for Mexican specialties at La Placita, a grocer and restaurant. Neighborhood eateries include Pick Up N Go, known for generous portions of soul food, El Barco Mexican Seafood Bar and Grill, also locally owned. Down the street, Lighthouse Lounge is a beloved cash-only bar, popular with locals for its pizza and neighborly atmosphere. Restaurants and bars are also nearby in downtown Waterloo, including The Brown Bottle, a rustic Italian restaurant, and Singlespeed Brewing, housed in the city’s former Wonder Bread factory. Large neon signs adorn the exterior of the building reading "Hostess Cake" and "Home of Wonder Bread."
El Barco in Church Row offers bold Mexican flavors with a focus on fresh, flavorful seafood.
The former Wonder Bread factory, now Singlespeed Brewing, is a Church Row go-to in Waterloo.
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Routes 63 and 218 impede walkability
U.S. Routes 63 and 218 separate homes from the river, a convenience for some journeys, but a hinderance for others. “There were planning-type decisions that were made in the past that contributed to the way the neighborhood grew and evolved and developed,” Kraus says. “The four-lane highway became a barrier to people in the neighborhood.” Church Row is no longer as walkable as it once was, and major employers like John Deere are harder to reach. These conditions have created a car-reliant neighborhood, though bus lines 1 and 8 do stop near many homes.
Church Row offers quick access to U.S. Routes 63 for easy and efficient travel.
U.S. Routes 218 connects Church Row with vibrant local communities and urban amenities.
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Celebrating the city at My Waterloo Days
Between May and October, residents can spend Saturday mornings perusing craft booths and picking out fresh produce at the Waterloo Urban Farmers Market. Downtown events often occur at Lincoln Park just across the river, including My Waterloo Days, a summer tradition started more than 40 years ago. The annual celebration of the city features a weekend of live music, food vendors, kids activities and a parade.
Spend Saturday mornings browsing local crafts in the heart of downtown Waterloo.
Church Row Saturdays are for local crafts and farm-fresh finds at Waterloo's farmers market.
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Irving Elementary is within the neighborhood
Students here begin at Irving Elementary within the neighborhood, rated a C-minus from Niche. Central Middle also has a C-minus, while West High gets a B-minus. Teens can participate in one of several career pathway programs, including arts and business, engineering and health. University of Northern Iowa is a 10-mile drive from Church Row.
Irving Elementary in Waterloo encourages creativity and collaboration among students.
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
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Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Church Row
US
Homicide
6
4
Sexual Assault
6
4
Assault with Weapon
6
4
Robbery
6
4
Burglary
5
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
5
4
Larceny
5
4
Crime Score
6
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Church Row Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Church Row, Waterloo sell after 49 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Church Row, Waterloo over the last 12 months is $70,950, up 9% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Up-and-down duplex with charming wood Craftsman features throughout. Each unit includes 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, and a spacious living room. Total monthly rent is $1,345, with the lower unit renting for $595 and the upper unit renting for $750. Tenants pay utilities, while the landlord covers water, averaging $278 per quarter. Both units feature newer appliances. With rents well above the 1% rule,
Welcome to 404 Allen Street in Waterloo – where modern elegance meets thoughtful renovation! This property has undergone a full-frame transformation, ensuring a hassle-free lifestyle for its lucky new owners. Step inside to discover a home that has been meticulously upgraded, from the HVAC system to the sheetrock, electrical, plumbing, and windows – every detail has been considered. The heart of
This is a 1925-built, 2-bedroom, 1-bath single-family residence well-suited for first-time buyers or income-oriented investors. The home offers generously proportioned bedrooms with oversized closets, a formal dining room accented by original woodwork, and an enclosed sleeping porch that provides flexible additional space. With a practical floor plan, no HOA restrictions, this vacant property is
Tucked into a Waterloo neighborhood where daily life feels simple and manageable, this thoughtfully renovated townhouse offers a practical layout paired with comfortable outdoor space. From the moment you arrive, the home presents an easygoing lifestyle—one designed for low maintenance and everyday convenience. Stepping through the front door, the main level unfolds into a welcoming living room
Welcome home to this inviting 2-bedroom, 1-bath townhouse in Waterloo — offering comfort, convenience, and low-maintenance living in a great location. Step inside to a bright and functional main level featuring a spacious living area perfect for relaxing or entertaining. The adjoining kitchen offers ample cabinet space and a practical layout that makes everyday living easy. Upstairs, you’ll find
Don't miss out on this excellent investment opportunity in Waterloo! This unique property includes three parcels totaling 0.47 acres, offering both immediate income and long-term potential. Two fully occupied rental units with separate entrances generating steady income: Unit 1: $700/month and Unit 2: $825/month. Recently built a 2-stall garage with garage door openers. Includes an additional
Brandie WhiteBerkshire Hathaway Home Services One Realty Centre
Add to your investment portfolio with this Waterloo duplex featuring a 3 bedroom main level unit and a 1 bedroom upper unit. Long term tenants and 100% occupied. The versatile layout appeals to a variety of tenants and provides excellent income producing potential.
Cozy Comfort on Allen Street... Discover this charming Waterloo gem at 118 Allen Street, where classic character meets modern convenience. This inviting home features a functional layout, sun-drenched living spaces, and spacious rooms. Property Highlights: Prime Location: Steps away from local parks and downtown amenities. Updated Interiors: Fresh paint and durable flooring throughout. Affordable
Opportunity is knocking! This character 2 story is ready for a new owner and a face lift! 3 bedrooms and a large bathroom upstairs, main floor has hardwood floors and original woodwork with a large living room and a formal dining space. The roof was replaced in 2013 and the furnace replaced in 2019. This is an estate and there will be no repairs made and the property will be sold "AS IS, WHERE
Huge 5 BR home, on large fenced in corner lot. Detached garage. Main floor has 1 BR, half bath, dining room, living room, and kitchen, 4 bedrooms and full bathroom with tub and shower on second floor. Upper level and main level porches. Full unfinished basement. Outside needs paint, but inside is lovely.
Office Phone #: Email: Website: Description: This upper level 1 bedroom apartment is now available. Stove and refrigerator are provided. Section 8 applicable. Schools: Irving Elementary, Central Middle School, West High SchoolUtilities Included: LawnAverage Utility Bill: $50/monthMove-In Costs: Deposit $525, Rent $525Lawn/Snow: Landlord takes care of
Description: This 3 bedroom, 1 bath house has been recently renovated! All bedrooms are upstairs. Large living room and dining room. Fridge and stove are provided.Schools: Irving Elementary, Central Middle School, West High SchoolUtilities Included: NoneMove-In Costs: $925 Deposit, $925 RentLawn/Snow: Tenant responsibilityPets/Animals: Allowed on a case-by-case basis,
Description: This 4-bedroom house was newly renovated and has a 2-stall garage. Schools: Irving Elementary, Central Middle School, West High School Utilities Included: NoneAverage Utilities: $175Move-In Costs: $1200 Deposit, $1200Rent Lawn/Snow: Tenant responsibilityAC: N/A Section 8: Not ApplicablePets: Allowed on a case-by-case basis, $50/monthOffice Phone #:
**RENT RECENTLY REDUCED!! ** Welcome to this spacious 2-bedroom townhouse located in the heart of Waterloo with easy access to University Ave, Downtown Waterloo and Highway 63. This property boasts a large living room, perfect for entertaining or simply relaxing after a long day. The townhouse features two well-sized bedrooms and a full bathroom, offering ample space for your comfort and
Description: This 3-bedroom house has new floor and paint throughout! Fridge and stove will be provided. Schools: Cunningham Elementary, Carver Middle School, West High School Utilities Included: NoneAverage Utilities: $190 Move-In Costs: $1100 Deposit, $1100Rent Lawn/Snow: Tenant responsibility AC: N/A Section 8: Not ApplicablePets: Allowed on a case-by-case
ONE MONTH FREE RENT WITH ONE YEAR LEASE! Welcome to this charming apartment located at 227 Allen Street in Waterloo, IA. Unit #223.5 offers a 1BR/1BA living space spanning 600.0 sqft, perfect for those seeking a comfortable and convenient place to call home. Built in 1889, this historic property has been beautifully maintained and updated to provide modern amenities while retaining its
4 Bedroom / 2 Bathroom HOUSE at 1122 W 5th St in West Waterloo. Across the street from Irving Elementary. Two story home. Master bedroom and bathroom located on main level. Three rooms and full bath upstairs. All appliances and washer and dryer provided. Off street parking in rear. Section 8 approved.-Security Deposit is 1.5x the rent on all units-We will do background checks and
$800 per month
**RENT RECENTLY REDUCED!! ** 2 bedroom townhome with walk out basement for rent in Waterloo!
**RENT RECENTLY REDUCED!! ** Welcome to this 2 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom Townhouse for rent, located in Waterloo, IA. The convenient location features easy access to University Ave, Downtown Waterloo and Highway 63. This townhouse offers a spacious living area, perfect for relaxation and entertainment. The property features two well-sized bedrooms and a full bathroom, providing ample space for your
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