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Decorah, Iowa

What It Is Like to Retire in Decorah

Decorah is a small town with a strong Norwegian heritage in northeastern Iowa, not too far from the Minnesota border. The population was 8,109 in 2012. The town has been the home of Luther College since 1861. Decorah celebrates it Norwegian heritage with its architecture and its annual Norwegian festival - the Nordic Fest each July. Decorah is also the home of the Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum. There is a charming downtown with galleries and restaurant. There are some attractive parks on bluffs above the Upper Iowa River, which is popular for all kinds of recreation including kayaking and hiking. Photo of Downtown Decorah courtesy of Wikipedia and Bobak Ha'Eri, Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0/

Where to Retire in Decorah and Home Prices

The city has several charming neighborhoods, some of near its many parks or the river. The median home value in early 2020 was $199,793, according to Zillow.com.

What Is Special about Decorah

Decorah experiences all four seasons with lots of outdoor activities, and is a very walkable community.

What Is Not Special about Decorah

Decorah is not close to any major city.

Who Will Like Retirement in Decorah

People who want a walkable community in a college town and enjoy outdoor activites would like it here.

Local Economy Is Driven by

Luther College is the biggest employer along with Winneshiek County.

Climate and Physical Environment

The average January temperature is about 18 degrees. The average July temperature is 73 degrees.

Restaurants & Cultural Scene

Each July Decorah is the host of Nordic Fest, a celebration of Norwegian culture with ethnic food, dancing and music. Decorah is home of the Vesterheim Noregian American Museum.