$300,520Average Value$148Average Price per Sq Ft42Homes For Sale
History and community togetherness in West Branch
Known as the birthplace of President Herbert Hoover, who lived here in a two-room cottage in 1874, West Branch’s character is deeply rooted in history. Key landmarks here include his birthplace cottage, the reconstructed blacksmith shop run by his father, the Friends Meetinghouse, and the original schoolhouse—all preserved as part of the Herbert Hoover National Historic Site. Main Street and its Quaker meetinghouse recall the days when West Branch’s residents played a role in the Underground Railroad, lending shelter and secrecy to freedom seekers in the decades before the Civil War. “Main Street pretty much serves as our chamber of commerce today,” shares Kat Korsmo, Public Services Librarian at West Branch Public Library. "They are in charge of hosting community events like scavenger hunts and puzzle tournaments that bring neighbors together." Community events hosted by the library and new retail expand West Branch’s reputation as a welcoming, family-friendly town where locals work together to support small business growth and neighborhood improvement.
West Branch has a population of 2,509.
Herbert Hoover National Historic Site preserves West Branch heritage.
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New Traditional and modern townhomes alongside historic architecture
The West Branch housing market features a mix of ranch-style homes, newly built townhomes and New Traditional homes, and the median sales price here is about $315,000. Many classic historic builds include American Foursquare and Victorian-style homes that line tree-shaded streets near downtown. Ranch-style and New Traditional designs are especially popular in newer developments, commanding the area’s highest prices.
Victorian homes in West Branch line shaded streets near downtown.
West Branch features American Foursquare classics with sturdy charm.
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Fine Arts at West Branch High
Local kids can start out at Hoover Elementary, which earns a C from Niche, then continue to the B-minus rated West Branch Middle School. West Branch High earns a B-minus and offers fine arts and career and technical education (CTE) programs.
West Branch High offers fine arts and CTE in a supportive setting.
West Branch Middle balances academics with community connection.
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West Branch Library events for teens and tots
Cubby Park covers more than 19 acres on West Branch’s north side and is the city’s largest park, featuring three baseball and softball fields, pickleball courts, a playground and a half-mile walking trail. Cedars Edge Golf Course offers 18 holes with rolling fairways, open to daily play just west of town. The Herbert Hoover National Historic Site spans more than 180 acres and provides paved walking paths through preserved landscapes. The Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum features permanent and rotating exhibits that explore the legacy of the 31st president and American history. Nearby, the West Branch Public Library serves as a lively gathering place offering resources for readers and programming for all ages. “Things get the busiest on Wednesday because that’s early-out day for school kids."
West Branch’s Cubby Park spans 19 acres of sports and family fun.
The birthplace cottage anchors West Branch’s Hoover historic campus.
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Shopping and dining on Main Street
Historic Main Street in West Branch is lined with locally owned businesses, including coffee shops, boutiques and specialty stores. The Serving Café is a community favorite for coffee and smoothies, while Main Street Sweets serves up ice cream and soft serve. Birdies Eats + Drinks offers burger and cocktail options in a relaxed setting, and Main Street Antiques is the local stop for vintage finds. Grocery shopping is handled by Dewey’s Jack and Jill and Iowa Meat Shack and Farm Market.
The Serving Café in West Branch is a favorite for coffee and smoothies.
Historic touches remain visible along West Branch’s Main Street.
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Iowa City and Cedar Rapids commutes
Interstate 80 offers an easy drive to Iowa City, Cedar Rapids and the rest of Eastern Iowa. UI Health Care Medical Center is about 15 miles away in Iowa City. There are no public buses in West Branch. Eastern Iowa Airport (CID) in Cedar Rapids is roughly 30 miles from West Branch.
Written By
Braxton Chea
Photography Contributed By
Mark Barakat
Video By
Aiyshanti Green
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in West Branch, IA sell after 71 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in West Branch, IA over the last 12 months is $294,000, down 6% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Ranch home on East side of West Branch on a .93 acre lot. Country on the edge of the town. 4 bedroom (One Non conforming) with walk out basement. Fenced in playground, patio with screened in deck above off large dining room. Separate living room with electric fireplace. Large lower level family room. two updated bathrooms. Main floor laundry. Two car attached garage with plenty of off street
Thoughtfully maintained and move-in ready, step inside this well cared for 2 bed, 2 bath West Branch property that offers the perfect blend of practical living and small-town charm. You’ll find a bright, open floor plan that makes the space feel both relaxed and inviting. The kitchen is the heart of the home, featuring custom cabinetry, beautiful quartz countertops, and like-new appliances, ready
Great condo unit in a great location. Welcome to West Branch in a newer unit condo with wonderful finishes and attached 2 car garage. Kitchen includes stainless steel appliances, island, pantry and granite countertops. Vaulted ceiling in the main living area. Great natural light throughout the home. Primary suite hosts walk-in closet, dual vanities and beautiful finishes. Don't miss this
Welcome to Heritage Hill! Located 10 minutes from wherever you are come enjoy peace and quiet while you relax on your large balcony with your choice of a newly built 3 Bed/2.5 bath Townhome, a 2 Bed/2.5 Bath Townhome, or a 2 Bed/2 bath Condominium or Ranch style or WB Ranch style homes. These beautiful townhomes and Condos are a must, very economic since you can lease one for less than you can
Limited-Time Tax Refund Offer! WHEN YOU BUY: Turn your tax refund into a deposit on your new home! Even better? Cambio will match your down payment up to $2,500, plus receive up to $200 off site rent for two years. Call today for more details! *Restrictions apply. Offer expires 3/31/26.*WHEN YOU RENT: Apply for FREE and move in with only a $399 or $699 deposit. Plus, enjoy NO RENT until 3/1/26.
For rent 3-bedroom 1-bath apartment in West Branch Iowa:It's a cozy 1st floor apartment featuring 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, washer and dryer, 1 car garage, and a spacious yard. The property is located in a quiet area with minimal traffic. We require a one-year lease at $1200 per month with a $1200 deposit. No pets or smoking are allowed. Tenants are pay for utilities. A $40
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