Council Bluffs Housing Update: Prices Up Double Digits, Affordable Units Advance
Council Bluffs, IA – March 7, 2026 – Home prices are rising faster than the state, new affordable units are advancing, and buyers face tight inventory this spring.
Home prices in Council Bluffs are climbing at a pace that outstrips much of Iowa, even as new affordable construction moves forward on the east side.
Top takeaways
- Median sale price around $239K in January 2026, up about 12.5% year over year.
- Price growth locally is running well above Iowa’s roughly 3–4% annual gain.
- City-backed affordable homes are underway in the East Manawa Subdivision.
- Rents remain comparatively affordable within the Omaha–Council Bluffs metro.
Market snapshot
According to Redfin, the median home price reached about $239K in January 2026, a 12.5% increase from a year earlier. Statewide, Iowa prices were up closer to the mid-single digits over the same period, highlighting stronger demand in the local market.
Zillow data shows a notable share of homes selling above list price late last year, a sign that well-priced properties continue to attract competitive offers. Inventory remains limited compared with buyer interest, keeping pressure on entry-level and move-in-ready homes.
New construction and affordability
The City of Council Bluffs, in partnership with local developers, is building 40 new affordable housing units in the East Manawa Subdivision. The homes, tied to down payment assistance efforts, are expected to expand options for first-time buyers in 2025 and 2026. Local housing planners continue to emphasize infill and workforce housing as priorities.
Rental trends
Recent rental market updates show Council Bluffs rents generally below larger Iowa metros, helping sustain cross-river demand from Omaha workers. Affordability remains a draw, though tighter vacancy can limit choices in certain price bands.
For buyers and sellers preparing this spring, local real estate activity often brings added demand for inspectors, roofers, and remodelers as homes change hands.
Sources
Are you seeing more competition, price cuts, or new listings in your neighborhood this spring?