c.1871 Iowa Handyman Special $17K

222 Morgan St, Keokuk, IA 52632   $17,000

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Back in the early 1900s, this was the carriage house of Frank Jackson Weess (1841-1911) and his wife, Louisa Lorentzen  Weess (1943-1912). They actually owned the big brick house at 222 Morgan, before #220 was divided off and converted into a home. The couple married in 1863 and had six children, John, Birdie, Frankie, Arnot, Emma, and a child who died in infancy. Mr. Weiss was born in Holland and came to the US as a boy.Even as a young lad, he worked in his dad’s butcher shop and took it over as an adult. He ran the business for more than 50 years.

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Pros of Living in Keokuk, IA

1. Affordable Cost of Living

Keokuk boasts a cost of living that is approximately 22% lower than the national average. Housing is notably affordable, with median home values around $75,400 and median rents at $692 per month. This affordability makes it an attractive option for individuals and families seeking economical living.

2. Rich Historical Heritage

The city is named after the Sauk chief Keokuk and is home to several historical landmarks, including the Rand Park and the Keokuk National Cemetery. Residents and visitors can explore the city’s rich history through various museums and historical sites.

3. Community-Oriented Atmosphere

Keokuk offers a tight-knit community where residents often know their neighbors. The city hosts various local events and festivals, fostering a strong sense of community and belonging.

4. Access to Outdoor Recreation

With its location along the Mississippi River, Keokuk provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and hiking. The city is also home to several parks, including Rand Park and Kiser Park, offering green spaces for residents to enjoy.

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Cons of Living in Keokuk, IA

1. Limited Job Opportunities

The local economy is primarily driven by healthcare and manufacturing sectors. With a median household income of $43,304, which is below the national average, and an unemployment rate of 7.4%, job opportunities can be limited.

2. High Crime Rate

Keokuk has a higher-than-average crime rate, with total crime rates at 2,612 per 100,000 people, which is 52% higher than the Iowa average. This elevated crime rate may be a concern for potential residents.

3. Declining Population

The city has experienced a steady population decline in recent years, with a 5-year decrease of 4.1%. This trend may impact local services and community dynamics.

4. Limited Amenities

While Keokuk offers basic services, it lacks the extensive amenities found in larger cities. Residents may need to travel to nearby towns for a wider variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

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Summary

Keokuk, Iowa, offers an affordable and community-oriented lifestyle with rich historical heritage and access to outdoor recreation. However, potential residents should consider the limited job opportunities, high crime rate, declining population, and limited amenities when evaluating if Keokuk aligns with their lifestyle preferences.

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