c.1902 Three Story Iowa Home w/ Incredible Woodwork $170K

c.1902 Three Story Iowa Home w/ Incredible Woodwork. Stunning inside and out! Built in 1902 by John Leisy and designed by George F. Barberone of Americas most celebrated late 19th-century domestic architects. 

1102 Concert St, Keokuk, IA 52632    $169,900

• Contact Realtor: Lisa M. Johnson
• Google Map
• Niche

 

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Pros of Living in Keokuk, IA

1. Exceptionally Affordable Cost of Living

• Keokuk has a cost‑of‑living index around 78, making it roughly 22% cheaper than the U.S. average—one of the most affordable cities both in Iowa (ranked #3) and nationally (ranked #113 out of ~6,400 places)

• Median home values fall between $75K–$80K, significantly below the national average

• Rent is also economical, with 2-bedroom units around $526–$730/month—well under national norms

2. Affordable Everyday Living

• Groceries, utilities, transportation, healthcare, and other essentials are generally cheaper, further enhancing the affordability of daily life

3. Decent Livability & Community Feel

• Keokuk performs above average on overall livability metrics, which factor in cost, education, health, and satisfaction

• Residents highlight the scale and accessibility—ample parks, walkability, and a strong community vibe

4. Short Commutes with Public Transit Support

• Average commute time is around 14 minutes, which is efficient for a small city

• Public transit availability is rated excellent, enhancing accessibility in town

5. Local Industry & Educational Opportunities

• Keokuk’s economy leans on manufacturing, healthcare, and education, with strong infrastructure tied to its Mississippi River location

• It’s home to Southeastern Community College, offering educational and vocational resources locally

6. Historical Character & Outdoor Access

• The city features notable historic architecture, including homes like the Frank J. Weess House and E.H. Harrison House

• Its location along the Mississippi River provides access to parks, trails, boating, and scenic green spaces

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Cons of Living in Keokuk, IA

1. High Crime Rates by Several Measures

• Several sources report crime rates well above national averages:

  • Overall crime is approximately 206% higher, violent crime 124% higher, property crime 223% higher—your chance of being a victim is 1 in 114 for violent crime and 1 in 16 for property crime

  • NeighborhoodScout paints a bleak picture: violent crime rate is about 5 per 1,000 (1 in 221), and property crime is 22 per 1,000 (1 in 46). Notably, motor vehicle theft is especially high—1 in 328 chance

2. Job Market & Income Challenges

• Keokuk’s median household income

• The unemployment rate is also elevated (~7–7.7%), higher than both state and national levels

• Overall, employment opportunities are rated fair to mediocre

3. Population Decline & Small Town Limitations

• The city’s population is shrinking—dropping from ~10,780 in 2010 to ~9,900 by 2020, with further recent declines

• Smaller populations can result in fewer services, limited amenities, and slower economic activity

4. Drivers’ Complaints & Lifestyle Concerns

• Local residents voice concerns across forums about economic decline, aging infrastructure, limited healthcare, and lack of innovation:

  “It’s a dying economy, old manufacturing river town… their hospital closed… sewer system is decades past due… roads are horrendous.”
  “Keokuk is a classic ‘river town’… dirty, high crime rate (for small town) and not great schools.”

• Some highlight low housing prices but warn that mental health and overall vitality might suffer in such a setting

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