These are the 25 Most Expensive Towns to Buy a House in Iowa (Feb. 2025 Data)

After analyzing the Zillow Home Value Index data, I’ve uncovered some fascinating trends in Iowa’s residential real estate market. The most expensive towns in Iowa have seen an average increase of 79.1% in home values from 2015 to 2025, with an impressive 41.2% growth just in the last five years. What’s particularly striking is that Honey Creek has experienced the most dramatic surge, with property values jumping 64.4% since 2020 — signaling intense demand in certain pockets of the state.

The geographic distribution of Iowa’s highest-value real estate reveals an interesting pattern. Dickinson County, home to the Iowa Great Lakes region, dominates the top of the list with West Okoboji, Orleans, and Wahpeton claiming the three highest spots. This scenic lakeside area commands premium prices that are more than double those found in other desirable communities across the state.

Looking at the data chronologically, it’s clear that Iowa’s housing market has accelerated dramatically in the past decade. Many towns that had moderate values in 2015 have seen appreciation rates of 80-100% or more. This growth far outpaces inflation and represents a significant wealth-building opportunity for longtime homeowners, while creating affordability challenges for new buyers entering these markets.

25. Oxford

• 2025 value: $361,280
• 2020 value: $260,736
• 2015 value: $191,270
• 2010 value: N/A
• Percentage change 2010 to 2025: N/A
• Percentage change 2015 to 2025: 88.9%
• Percentage change 2020 to 2025: 38.6%

Oxford’s home values have quietly surged in the background, climbing from $191,270 in 2015 to an impressive $361,280 in 2025 – representing an 88.9% increase over a decade and a solid 38.6% jump since 2020. This small Johnson County community has transformed from an affordable rural alternative to a sought-after destination. Oxford sits just west of Iowa City, offering residents the perfect blend of small-town charm with proximity to the University of Iowa and the cultural amenities of a college town.

24. Granger

• 2025 value: $366,931
• 2020 value: $272,991
• 2015 value: $202,480
• 2010 value: N/A
• Percentage change 2010 to 2025: N/A
• Percentage change 2015 to 2025: 81.2%
• Percentage change 2020 to 2025: 34.4%

The housing market in Granger has demonstrated remarkable resilience, with values climbing steadily from $202,480 in 2015 to $366,931 in 2025, reflecting an 81.2% increase over the decade and a robust 34.4% growth since 2020. Families are gravitating toward this Polk County gem for its excellent schools and community feel. Nestled just northwest of Des Moines, Granger offers residents the perfect balance of rural tranquility with an easy commute to the capital city’s employment opportunities.

23. Alleman

• 2025 value: $368,002
• 2020 value: $309,095
• 2015 value: $213,874
• 2010 value: N/A
• Percentage change 2010 to 2025: N/A
• Percentage change 2015 to 2025: 72.1%
• Percentage change 2020 to 2025: 19.1%

Alleman’s trajectory shows a fascinating pattern, with home values increasing from $213,874 in 2015 to $368,002 in 2025, representing a solid 72.1% decade-long growth but a more modest 19.1% rise since 2020 – suggesting the market may be stabilizing. This charming community has attracted homebuyers seeking value without sacrificing quality. Located in northern Polk County, Alleman provides residents a peaceful rural setting while remaining within easy reach of Des Moines’ metropolitan amenities and the expanding tech corridor.

22. Saint Charles

• 2025 value: $373,601
• 2020 value: $254,870
• 2015 value: $161,877
• 2010 value: N/A
• Percentage change 2010 to 2025: N/A
• Percentage change 2015 to 2025: 130.8%
• Percentage change 2020 to 2025: 46.6%

Among Iowa’s high-value towns, Saint Charles stands out for its extraordinary growth rate, with property values skyrocketing from a modest $161,877 in 2015 to $373,601 in 2025 – a staggering 130.8% increase that outpaces nearly all its peers. The momentum shows no signs of slowing, with a 46.6% jump just since 2020. This Madison County treasure sits south of Des Moines, offering residents scenic landscapes with rolling hills and three nearby reservoirs that provide recreational opportunities while maintaining a reasonable commuting distance to the capital.

21. Robins

• 2025 value: $378,035
• 2020 value: $290,000
• 2015 value: $248,671
• 2010 value: N/A
• Percentage change 2010 to 2025: N/A
• Percentage change 2015 to 2025: 52.0%
• Percentage change 2020 to 2025: 30.4%

Robins has maintained a steady climb in home values, rising from $248,671 in 2015 to $378,035 in 2025, representing a respectable 52.0% decade growth and a solid 30.4% increase since 2020. The community’s controlled development has attracted professionals and families seeking stability. Situated in Linn County just north of Cedar Rapids, Robins provides residents with excellent schools and a tight-knit community atmosphere while offering quick access to employment opportunities in Iowa’s second-largest city.

20. Johnston

• 2025 value: $382,384
• 2020 value: $286,360
• 2015 value: $239,437
• 2010 value: N/A
• Percentage change 2010 to 2025: N/A
• Percentage change 2015 to 2025: 59.7%
• Percentage change 2020 to 2025: 33.5%

The appeal of Johnston continues to drive its housing market upward, with values increasing from $239,437 in 2015 to $382,384 in 2025, showing a healthy 59.7% growth over the decade and an impressive 33.5% jump in just the last five years. Corporate relocations and expansion have fueled demand in this desirable suburb. Located directly north of Des Moines in Polk County, Johnston is home to major employers like Pioneer Hi-Bred International and Iowa Public Television, offering residents excellent schools and some of the metro’s most sought-after neighborhoods.

19. Adel

• 2025 value: $385,741
• 2020 value: $284,132
• 2015 value: $199,760
• 2010 value: N/A
• Percentage change 2010 to 2025: N/A
• Percentage change 2015 to 2025: 93.1%
• Percentage change 2020 to 2025: 35.8%

Adel exemplifies Iowa’s rural renaissance, with home values nearly doubling from $199,760 in 2015 to $385,741 in 2025 – an impressive 93.1% decade increase with continued strong growth of 35.8% since 2020. The town’s historic brick buildings and tree-lined streets have captivated homebuyers. As the Dallas County seat, Adel combines small-town charm with strategic positioning along the rapidly developing western corridor of the Des Moines metro, making it increasingly attractive to commuters seeking more space and character than newer suburbs.

18. Toddville

• 2025 value: $392,436
• 2020 value: $276,172
• 2015 value: $230,038
• 2010 value: N/A
• Percentage change 2010 to 2025: N/A
• Percentage change 2015 to 2025: 70.6%
• Percentage change 2020 to 2025: 42.1%

Few communities can match Toddville’s recent acceleration, with home values climbing from $276,172 in 2020 to $392,436 in 2025 – a remarkable 42.1% increase in just five years on top of the already impressive 70.6% growth since 2015. Limited housing inventory has created a competitive market for interested buyers. This tiny Linn County community north of Cedar Rapids offers residents a rural lifestyle with acreages and natural surroundings while maintaining proximity to urban amenities and employment centers.

17. Peosta

• 2025 value: $396,933
• 2020 value: $287,543
• 2015 value: $238,438
• 2010 value: N/A
• Percentage change 2010 to 2025: N/A
• Percentage change 2015 to 2025: 66.5%
• Percentage change 2020 to 2025: 38.0%

Peosta’s growth story is one of consistent upward momentum, with home values rising from $238,438 in 2015 to $396,933 in 2025, representing a solid 66.5% decade-long increase and an impressive 38.0% jump since 2020. The town’s strategic development has created a desirable mix of housing options. Located just west of Dubuque in eastern Iowa, Peosta has positioned itself as a forward-thinking community with Northeast Iowa Community College’s campus and growing business park attracting young professionals and families to the area.

16. Van Meter

• 2025 value: $399,185
• 2020 value: $275,029
• 2015 value: $218,654
• 2010 value: N/A
• Percentage change 2010 to 2025: N/A
• Percentage change 2015 to 2025: 82.6%
• Percentage change 2020 to 2025: 45.1%

Van Meter has emerged as a housing market powerhouse, with values surging from $275,029 in 2020 to $399,185 in 2025 – an exceptional 45.1% five-year growth rate building on the already substantial 82.6% increase since 2015. The town’s excellent schools and community pride have made it a magnet for families. Positioned in Madison County at the western edge of the Des Moines metro, Van Meter blends its famous baseball heritage (as the hometown of Hall of Famer Bob Feller) with modern amenities while maintaining a charming small-town atmosphere.

15. Polk City

• 2025 value: $399,946
• 2020 value: $297,723
• 2015 value: $224,461
• 2010 value: N/A
• Percentage change 2010 to 2025: N/A
• Percentage change 2015 to 2025: 78.2%
• Percentage change 2020 to 2025: 34.3%

The appeal of lakeside living has driven Polk City’s home values to new heights, increasing from $224,461 in 2015 to $399,946 in 2025 – representing a robust 78.2% decade-long growth and a strong 34.3% rise just since 2020. New construction and development have expanded housing options while maintaining community character. Nestled along the shores of Saylorville Lake in northern Polk County, this growing community combines recreational opportunities with an easy commute to Des Moines, making it increasingly popular with outdoor enthusiasts and professionals alike.

14. Clive

• 2025 value: $405,393
• 2020 value: $301,387
• 2015 value: $256,009
• 2010 value: N/A
• Percentage change 2010 to 2025: N/A
• Percentage change 2015 to 2025: 58.4%
• Percentage change 2020 to 2025: 34.5%

Clive’s mature housing market continues to appreciate steadily, with values rising from $301,387 in 2020 to $405,393 in 2025, showing a healthy 34.5% five-year growth that builds upon a solid 58.4% increase since 2015. The community’s commitment to green spaces and amenities has maintained its desirability. Strategically positioned in the western suburbs of Des Moines, Clive has cultivated a reputation for excellent recreational trails, upscale dining, and shopping districts while its award-winning Greenbelt Park system offers residents a natural escape in the heart of suburbia.

13. Runnells

• 2025 value: $407,817
• 2020 value: $275,247
• 2015 value: $200,250
• 2010 value: N/A
• Percentage change 2010 to 2025: N/A
• Percentage change 2015 to 2025: 103.7%
• Percentage change 2020 to 2025: 48.2%

Runnells stands out as one of Iowa’s most dramatic growth stories, with home values more than doubling from $200,250 in 2015 to $407,817 in 2025 – an astounding 103.7% decade increase, with nearly half that growth (48.2%) occurring just since 2020. The secret is out about this formerly overlooked gem. Located in eastern Polk County along the banks of the Des Moines River, Runnells offers residents a genuine small-town atmosphere with acreages and scenic views while remaining just a short drive from Des Moines’ eastern suburbs and employment centers.

12. Solon

• 2025 value: $410,383
• 2020 value: $308,537
• 2015 value: $247,559
• 2010 value: N/A
• Percentage change 2010 to 2025: N/A
• Percentage change 2015 to 2025: 65.8%
• Percentage change 2020 to 2025: 33.0%

The ascent of Solon’s housing market continues unabated, with values climbing steadily from $247,559 in 2015 to $410,383 in 2025 – a solid 65.8% increase over the decade and a robust 33.0% growth since 2020. Excellence in education has been a major driver for this community’s housing demand. Situated in Johnson County between Iowa City and Cedar Rapids, Solon offers residents award-winning schools and a vibrant downtown while providing easy access to two of eastern Iowa’s major employment centers.

11. Swisher

• 2025 value: $416,074
• 2020 value: $327,818
• 2015 value: $267,538
• 2010 value: N/A
• Percentage change 2010 to 2025: N/A
• Percentage change 2015 to 2025: 55.5%
• Percentage change 2020 to 2025: 26.9%

Swisher presents an interesting case study in controlled growth, with home values increasing from $267,538 in 2015 to $416,074 in 2025 – a respectable 55.5% decade gain with a more moderate 26.9% rise since 2020, suggesting a maturing market. Large lot sizes and custom homes have made this a destination for discerning buyers. This Johnson County community occupies the perfect middle ground between Cedar Rapids and Iowa City, allowing residents to enjoy small-town tranquility with larger acreages while maintaining reasonable commuting access to either urban center.

10. Ackworth

• 2025 value: $419,850
• 2020 value: $283,582
• 2015 value: N/A
• 2010 value: N/A
• Percentage change 2010 to 2025: N/A
• Percentage change 2015 to 2025: N/A
• Percentage change 2020 to 2025: 48.1%

Despite limited historical data, Ackworth has undeniably emerged as a real estate hotspot, with home values surging 48.1% from $283,582 in 2020 to $419,850 in 2025 – one of the steepest five-year growth trajectories in the state. Exclusive properties and privacy have attracted affluent buyers to this under-the-radar location. This tiny Warren County community south of Des Moines offers residents a peaceful rural setting with expansive properties and natural beauty while remaining close enough to the metro for convenient access to urban amenities.

9. Arnolds Park

• 2025 value: $422,428
• 2020 value: $276,474
• 2015 value: $220,505
• 2010 value: N/A
• Percentage change 2010 to 2025: N/A
• Percentage change 2015 to 2025: 91.6%
• Percentage change 2020 to 2025: 52.8%

The allure of lakeside living has catapulted Arnolds Park property values to new heights, climbing from $276,474 in 2020 to $422,428 in 2025 – an impressive 52.8% five-year gain that builds on a decade-long growth of 91.6% since 2015. Recent revitalization efforts have enhanced this already desirable vacation destination. Located in Dickinson County along the shores of West Okoboji Lake, this iconic tourist town combines its famous amusement park heritage with stunning waterfront properties, making it both a vacation hotspot and an increasingly popular choice for year-round residents.

8. Honey Creek

• 2025 value: $424,437
• 2020 value: $258,104
• 2015 value: $194,536
• 2010 value: N/A
• Percentage change 2010 to 2025: N/A
• Percentage change 2015 to 2025: 118.2%
• Percentage change 2020 to 2025: 64.4%

No town in Iowa’s top 25 can match Honey Creek’s explosive recent growth, with home values skyrocketing 64.4% from $258,104 in 2020 to $424,437 in 2025, building on an already impressive 118.2% increase since 2015. The combination of natural beauty and accessibility has created unprecedented demand. Nestled in Pottawattamie County near the Missouri River and adjacent to Honey Creek State Park, this community offers residents stunning landscapes and outdoor recreation while providing reasonable access to the Omaha-Council Bluffs metro area across the river.

7. Panora

• 2025 value: $447,070
• 2020 value: $332,440
• 2015 value: $270,459
• 2010 value: N/A
• Percentage change 2010 to 2025: N/A
• Percentage change 2015 to 2025: 65.3%
• Percentage change 2020 to 2025: 34.5%

Lakeside living has elevated Panora into Iowa’s real estate upper echelon, with home values steadily climbing from $270,459 in 2015 to $447,070 in 2025 – a solid 65.3% decade increase with continued strong momentum showing a 34.5% rise since 2020. The combination of recreation and investment potential has attracted both primary residents and second-home buyers. Located in Guthrie County along the shores of Lake Panorama, Iowa’s largest private lake, Panora offers residents championship golf courses, water recreation, and a small-town atmosphere while remaining just an hour’s drive from Des Moines.

6. Okoboji

• 2025 value: $450,704
• 2020 value: $304,051
• 2015 value: $248,697
• 2010 value: N/A
• Percentage change 2010 to 2025: N/A
• Percentage change 2015 to 2025: 81.2%
• Percentage change 2020 to 2025: 48.2%

Okoboji has solidified its position as one of Iowa’s premier real estate markets, with home values surging from $304,051 in 2020 to $450,704 in 2025 – an impressive 48.2% five-year growth that contributes to an overall 81.2% increase since 2015. Limited waterfront inventory combined with high demand has created a competitive market. This iconic Dickinson County destination sits directly on East Okoboji Lake in Iowa’s Great Lakes region, offering residents and vacationers alike pristine waters, resort amenities, and a summer playground atmosphere that has made it the Midwest’s answer to coastal vacation communities.

5. Shueyville

• 2025 value: $498,568
• 2020 value: $385,162
• 2015 value: $322,427
• 2010 value: N/A
• Percentage change 2010 to 2025: N/A
• Percentage change 2015 to 2025: 54.6%
• Percentage change 2020 to 2025: 29.4%

Shueyville has maintained its position among Iowa’s most exclusive communities, with home values climbing steadily from $322,427 in 2015 to $498,568 in 2025 – a respectable 54.6% decade growth with a steady 29.4% increase since 2020. The town’s distinctive blend of rural character and upscale homes has created a unique identity. Located in Johnson County just north of Iowa City and near Coralville Reservoir, Shueyville offers residents larger lots and custom homes while providing access to the cultural and educational opportunities associated with a major university town.

4. Cumming

• 2025 value: $512,030
• 2020 value: $369,918
• 2015 value: $281,876
• 2010 value: N/A
• Percentage change 2010 to 2025: N/A
• Percentage change 2015 to 2025: 81.7%
• Percentage change 2020 to 2025: 38.4%

Cumming’s transformation from rural outpost to luxury enclave is reflected in its impressive home value trajectory, rising from $281,876 in 2015 to $512,030 in 2025 – a remarkable 81.7% decade increase with continued strong 38.4% growth since 2020. The town’s unique positioning has attracted affluent professionals and families. Located in Madison County just southwest of Des Moines, Cumming provides the perfect blend of countryside living and urban accessibility, with the popular Great Western Trail running directly through town and new developments like Cumming Station bringing upscale amenities to this formerly quiet community.

3. Wahpeton

• 2025 value: $559,377
• 2020 value: $362,720
• 2015 value: N/A
• 2010 value: N/A
• Percentage change 2010 to 2025: N/A
• Percentage change 2015 to 2025: N/A
• Percentage change 2020 to 2025: 54.2%

Wahpeton’s meteoric rise in Iowa’s real estate hierarchy is evident in its staggering 54.2% value growth from $362,720 in 2020 to $559,377 in 2025. Exclusivity and location have positioned this community among the state’s most prestigious addresses. This tiny lakeside community in Dickinson County sits along West Okoboji Lake, widely considered the crown jewel of Iowa’s Great Lakes region with its clear blue waters and premium shoreline. Wahpeton’s strict zoning regulations have preserved its upscale character, creating an enclave of luxury homes with spectacular lake views.

2. Orleans

• 2025 value: $680,348
• 2020 value: $422,142
• 2015 value: $359,899
• 2010 value: N/A
• Percentage change 2010 to 2025: N/A
• Percentage change 2015 to 2025: 89.0%
• Percentage change 2020 to 2025: 61.2%

Orleans has cemented its position near the pinnacle of Iowa’s luxury real estate market, with home values soaring from $422,142 in 2020 to $680,348 in 2025 – an extraordinary 61.2% five-year increase that contributes to an overall 89.0% growth since 2015. The limited inventory of lakefront property has created intense competition among buyers. Situated in Dickinson County on the eastern shores of Spirit Lake and adjacent to East Okoboji Lake, Orleans enjoys the unique distinction of providing residents access to multiple lakes, creating unparalleled recreational opportunities in what has become one of the Midwest’s most coveted vacation and luxury home markets.

1. West Okoboji

• 2025 value: $865,476
• 2020 value: $550,968
• 2015 value: N/A
• 2010 value: N/A
• Percentage change 2010 to 2025: N/A
• Percentage change 2015 to 2025: N/A
• Percentage change 2020 to 2025: 57.1%

Reigning supreme atop Iowa’s real estate market, West Okoboji commands extraordinary property values that have surged 57.1% from $550,968 in 2020 to an astounding $865,476 in 2025. The combination of natural beauty, recreation, and exclusivity has created a market unlike any other in the state. This prestigious Dickinson County community surrounding West Okoboji Lake features some of Iowa’s most valuable real estate, with the lake’s exceptional water quality (it’s one of only three blue water lakes in the world outside of Switzerland) and strict environmental protections ensuring its position as Iowa’s premier luxury destination for generations to come.