Illinois city in the St. Louis Metro with a re-energized downtown
Waterloo has a longstanding history dating back to the 1800s, and more than 200 buildings make up Waterloo’s Historic District. These spaces have come back to life with new businesses starting to occupy them downtown. The small city has a population of around 11,000, offers several outdoor attractions and is only about 25 miles from St. Louis. “I would say the biggest draw is the schools that are right here in our community,” says Amy Hank, a Realtor with Keller Williams Pinnacle who has lived in Waterloo for most of her life. “There’s a lot of community parks, and a brand-new splash pad. In the past few years, many businesses and restaurants have opened downtown. There are lots of community festivals and parades and a lot of family-oriented things going on. But still some bars and nightlife, too.”
Waterloo offers peaceful living with easy access to St. Louis amenities.
Sip on house-brewed ales at Hopskeller’s in historic downtown Waterloo, IL.
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Established houses are still an attraction
There’s a fair share of recently built homes in Waterloo, filling developments like Country Club Hills and Natalie Estates. These properties range between $375,000 and $550,000. But there are also plenty of established homes, dating as far back as the 19th century, that are popular partly because of their location. “The downtown area does have a lot of existing houses, and I find people are really liking moving downtown now, to be right next to restaurants and shopping and everything,” Hank says. “They seem to be selling homes in neighborhoods that are maybe newish homes with bigger yards and selling those to move closer to downtown to be able to walk to things. This is all ages, too. I’m seeing empty nesters and younger people without kids doing this, as well as families with kids.” Some of the city’s older homes are cheaper, too, available for $85,000 to $300,000. Waterloo’s median list price is about $362,500, a mark more than some other cities in the area, including Columbia and Belleville, but still less than the national median.
Step back in time with Waterloo’s well-preserved 19th-century brick Cape Cod homes.
Discover newer custom-built homes offering comfort and privacy in Waterloo, IL.
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Industrial industries play a key role
Monroe County, which Waterloo is the seat of, has companies representing a range of industrial services, from plumbing supplies distribution to printing. Also, Waterloo’s location in relation to St. Louis opens up a job market where major employers include Anheuser-Busch and Boeing. “I would say most people still commute to St. Louis,” Hank says. “I know many people work from home now, too.”
Close to Waterloo, IL, Boeing’s St. Louis headquarters helps shape global aviation.
Waterloo’s location opens up a job market to major employers including Anheuser-Busch.
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W.J. Zahnow Elementary has modern updates
The Waterloo Community School District No. 5 maintains a B-plus rating on Niche. W.J. Zahnow Elementary, one of the system’s three elementary schools, recently received an addition and renovation to accommodate a growing student body in a city whose population has jumped 12% from 2010 to 2020. Gibault Catholic High has a B-plus rating and a 10-to-1 student-teacher ratio.
Athletics at W J Zahnow Elementary School build teamwork, and school spirit in Waterloo, IL.
Gibault Catholic High School in Waterloo, IL offers various clubs and activities for students.
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Waterloo parks have an assortment of amenities
Waterloo has five city parks with varying amenities. Koenigsmark Park has a skate park, while Lakeview Park has a 2-mile trail and three lakes open to fishing. Konarcik Park features an 18-hole disc golf course. A new splash pad opened at William Zimmer Memorial Park in 2024. The Monroe County YMCA, 6 miles away in nearby Columbia, can be an escape from the elements in an area where the weather can vary. “I would say that we experience all the seasons. It’s very hot and humid in the summer, in the hundreds,” Hank says. “We do get snow and ice. But the spring and the fall are both very mild.”
Skaters of all levels enjoy Koenigsmark Park’s smooth ramps and rails in Waterloo, IL.
Konarcik Park's frisbee golf course offers fresh air for all skill levels in Waterloo, IL.
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Waterloo’s downtown maintains its historic character
People here like to spend free time perusing the city’s downtown. Many brick buildings throughout this walkable district date back to the 19th century, and many of them have plaques on their exteriors explaining their history, as part of a project conducted by students at Gibault Catholic High in 2014. The businesses in these buildings include restaurants, bars, breweries, salons, gift shops and more. Downtown Waterloo hosts events including the Porta Westfalica Festival, which happens on the third Tuesday of June and is an immersion in German culture in recognition of Waterloo’s sister city, Porta Westfalica, Germany. The GLOW Lighted Holiday Parade on the Saturday after Thanksgiving is a staple, too. “That has become huge,” Hank says.
Historic brick buildings host charming cafes in walkable Waterloo, IL.
Many restaurants and wine bars in Waterloo, IL, are housed in beautifully preserved brick buildings.
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Monroe Randolph Transit District is a method of transportation
Monroe Randolph Transit District is a public transportation option in the region that provides curb-to-curb rides for $6 per trip, and that has a commuter route to the 5th and Missouri MetroLink station for light rail service to St. Louis. Drivers can take Illinois State Route 3 and Interstate 64 for commutes to St. Louis. They can then continue onto I-44 and I-70 in St. Louis to get to the St. Louis Lambert International Airport, about 37 miles away. Red Bud Regional Hospital, which has an emergency room, is a 14-mile trip to the nearby city of Red Bud on Route 3.
Crime
Crime statistics specific to Waterloo are not readily available. However, according to Monroe County Sheriff data reported to the Illinois Uniform Crime Reporting Program, the area saw a 44% drop in overall offenses reported from 2023 to 2024. Waterloo is the county seat of Monroe.
Written By
Wayne Epps Jr.
Photography Contributed By
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Video By
Jason Jacot
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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.
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On average, homes in Waterloo, IL sell after 111 days on the market compared to the national average of 57 days. The median sale price for homes in Waterloo, IL over the last 12 months is $624,500, up 12% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Located on the north end of Waterloo, this well-maintained all-brick home offers a strong first impression with a brand-new concrete driveway, stamped sidewalk, and clean, established curb appeal.Inside, the home features a comfortable and functional layout with a spacious family room that transitions seamlessly into the main living area, anchored by a gas fireplace. The kitchen is both
Visit the Display Home Open House at 1013 Waymaker Ln, Waterloo, IL. New Construction: Customizable "The Heritage" Plan at Silver Creek Crossing by Quantum Homes, Inc. This is a To Be Built listing, offering you the exciting opportunity to fully customize your new home! With an estimated build time of just 5-6 months, your dream home is within reach. The "Heritage" is a spacious and thoughtfully
Looking for a project that actually pays off? This 3-bedroom bungalow sits on 8 prime acres in Waterloo and is ready for a complete transformation. Whether you’re looking to strip it to the studs for a modern farmhouse renovation or clear the site for a brand-new build, this much land in this location is a rare find. Forget the tiny subdivision lots—here you have the space to breathe, grow, and
New construction home in the desirable Quail Ridge subdivision, located directly across from Mystic Oak Golf Course. This ranch-style home offers approximately 1,731 sq ft with a split-bedroom floor plan, 3 bedrooms, and 2 full baths. The main living area features an open layout with Coretec LVP flooring and an upgraded electric fireplace with mantel. The kitchen includes quartz countertops, a GE
HOME CAN BE COMPLETED WITHIN 5 WEEKS ONCE CONTRACT ACCEPTED. Welcome to The Waymaker, a thoughtfully designed home offering the perfect blend of comfort and style. This 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom ranch features a desirable split floor plan, placing the primary suite with an all-marble master bath and convenient laundry access on one side of the home, and two additional bedrooms on the other for added
New Construction: Customizable "The Cheyenne" Plan at Natalie EstatesThis is a To Be Built listing, offering you the exciting opportunity to fully customize your new home! With an estimated build time of just 5-6 months, your dream home is within reach.The "Cheyenne" is a spacious and thoughtfully designed floor plan, one of many excellent options offered by Quantum Homes, Inc. in the
Welcome to this beautiful 3-side brick ranch in Waterloo, ideally located near Lakeview Park! This home offers a spacious and functional layout with plenty of room to live and entertain. The main level features a large living room that flows seamlessly into the kitchen and dining area, creating an open and inviting space. The kitchen is a standout with a center island and an abundance of cabinet
TO BE BUILT – The Orchard by Jason Schmidt Construction in Quail Ridge Subdivision! This 3 bed, 2 bath ranch offers 1,673 sq ft with an open floor plan, 9’ ceilings, luxury vinyl plank flooring, and a spacious great room. Kitchen features Tier 1 granite, soft-close cabinets, walk-in pantry, and stainless GE appliances. Primary suite includes walk-in closet, dual vanity, and tiled shower with
This sprawling all-brick ranch offers more than 1,850 square feet on the main level with an additional 1,600+ finished square feet below, providing exceptional space and flexibility. The formal foyer leads to a fully remodeled eat-in kitchen, a large living room, or the bedroom wing. The kitchen features shaker cabinets, LVP flooring, stainless steel appliances, a farmhouse sink, and a generous
New photos of the kitchen have just been uploaded—be sure to check them out! Step into history with this 126-year-old corner lot 2-story home! Boasting 3 bedrooms and 1 1/2 bathrooms, this property is rich with character and charm. The main level features beautiful hardwood floors, pocket doors, and so much of the original woodwork still intact. The kitchen has been thoughtfully updated with a
Conveniently located in Waterloo just minutes from downtown, this 1.5-story home offers a functional layout and great potential! The main level features two bedrooms, a full bathroom, and a kitchen that opens to the living room, creating an easy flow for everyday living. Upstairs, you’ll find an additional bedroom and half bath, offering a bit of privacy for guests or a separate living space. The
Beautifully remodeled 1.5-story home located in the heart of Waterloo! The updated kitchen features new cabinets, countertops, sink, microwave, faucet and refrigerator. Both bathrooms have been fully renovated with modern finishes.Major updates include a new roof and siding (2025) and HVAC system replacement (2026), offering peace of mind for years to come.The main floor offers a
Looking for a building site for your new home? This lot is 1.38 acres located in New Design Plaza, a country subdivision with easy access to State Route 3. Located within minutes of Waterloo. Your plans-your builder. Plans to be approved by seller. Minimum sq ft. of 1400. Association fee is $45.00 a month covering pumping of individual sewer system & maintenance of community mound system. Public
A masterpiece of craftsmanship and refined living, this all-brick-and-stone estate commands attention from the moment you arrive. Set foot on an impressive 1.63-acre double lot. The home blends architectural integrity with modern luxury, offering a lifestyle defined by comfort, sophistication, and enduring quality. A stately double-door entry welcomes you inside, where hand-scraped hardwood
Property Id: 24192672022 Construction, townhome in desirable Waterloo location. This 2 bedroom, 1.5 bath is a quality home and your dream come true. Upgraded features include stainless appliances, glass backsplash in kitchen with under cabinet lighting, white interior trim, tall baseboards, and hard surface flooring throughout - with the exception of carpeting in bedrooms. The main floor
Four Bedroom House on 3 Acres in Private Waterloo Setting, Hardwood Flooring and Vaulted Ceiling in Main Living Areas, 23 x 15 Living Room with Stone Hearth Ventless Gas Fireplace, 24 x 14 Kitchen with Staggered Maple Cabinetry, Crown Moulding, Center Island with Glass Cooktop, Oven, Built In Microwave, Garbage Disposal, Dishwasher and Refrigerator, Adjacent Breakfast and 14 x 10 Dining Room
Rare opportunity for lease of updated sprawling ranch in one of Waterloo's hottest subdivisions, Quail Ridge. Large 3 Car garage. Main level laundry. Super open floor plan with tall vaulted ceilings and lots of natural light. Large functional kitchen with dining island. Dining area off kitchen with large bay windows. Opens up to back patio with large flat yard. Gas fireplace. Tray ceilings in
Three Bedroom Waterloo House in Pautler Heights Subdivision, Tri Level Floor Plan with Covered Front Porch, Hardwood Flooring Throughout Main Living Areas, Living Room Opens to Kitchen Area, Kitchen Features LVP Flooring and Custom Tile Backsplash, Provides Gas Cooktop, Garbage Disposal, Wall Oven and Refrigerator, Adjacent Dining Area Walks Out to Back Deck, Three Bedrooms and Full Bath on Upper
3-bedroom/2-bathroom duplex coming soon in Waterloo! Split-level home with fireplace, walk-in closets, laundry hook-ups in laundry room, attached 1-car garage, and so much more! Credit score must be 600+, pets will need owner approval.By submitting your information on this page you consent to being contacted by the Property Manager and RentEngine via SMS, phone, or email.
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