These Are the Places With the Most Affordable Vintage Historic Homes

Owning a beautiful Victorian home is a dream for many people. These houses are increasingly sought after by buyers. While the home’s rich history and stunning design are apparent draws, there are many more reasons people have started to flock to these period properties. But finding an affordable historic home in the United States can be challenging.

Some of the best places to buy a cheap Victorian home are thriving communities that have been overlooked. But they won’t be for long.

Post Covid-19, housing prices skyrocketed. However, remote working remained consistent, and buyers kept their options open when choosing a location for their new residence. Lately, smaller towns and cities are gaining traction. Many families consider beautiful historic houses as working from home has placed a greater value on space and quality. And there are more than a few reasons to opt for one.

High-quality builds are often seen in well-preserved historic homes.

The floors are often sturdier than many houses now built with particle board or plywood. Also, wood obtained from ancient forests is typically stronger than farmed wood.

Most buyers, however, are interested in the craftsmanship and unique characteristics of older homes compared to mass-produced houses. Victorian homes’ high, vaulted ceilings helped move hot air upward and kept rooms and gathering areas cooler before air-conditioning. Today, they are loved for the feeling of spaciousness.

For those who dream of living in a pre-war property, these affordable places in the United States with historic homes are ripe for investing.

Madison, Indiana

This close-knit community is steeped in history and relishes its small-town persona. Downtown Madison features 133 blocks of shops, restaurants, and cafes. All of which are locally owned and operated. These businesses’ historic buildings add to the appeal of stepping back in time.

Additionally, the capital hosts many popular events along the water. Car shows, art festivals, and music events are prevalent, making it the state’s event center.

According to Madison’s official historic home property guide, property values grow faster here than in other areas of the local market, and most homes are within walking distance of the downtown area.

Additionally, state and federal financial incentives give tax credits to owners of qualifying historic structures.

According to Redfin, in October 2023, the average home sold for $223k, up 7.6% from last year.

Sherman Hill, Des Moines, Iowa

Sherman Hill has been experiencing a revitalization. As the oldest residential neighborhood in Des Moines, the area is revered for its distinct architecture. It has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1979.

Residents love the antique street lighting along the streets and the bohemian feel of the community. Many breweries and restaurants have popped up since the mid-1990s.

According to Realtor.com, Sherman Hills homes have a median listing home price of $329k.

Goldsboro, North Carolina

Undoubtedly, Goldsboro is a small town in an area with cheap Victorian homes. The village has a population of slightly over 30,000, and certainly a rural feel. Andy Griffith (from The Andy Griffith Show) lived on the corner of Audubon and Mulberry.

Considered part of Wayne County, the town is about an hour’s drive from Raleigh. Goldsboro has historic structures, railroads, BBQ restaurants, and a buzzy downtown area featuring plenty of public art.

Gorgeous, well-maintained historic homes have drawn visitors to the area.

According to Redfin, the average price of a historic home in Goldsboro is $210K.

Albany, Oregon

Albany contains four historic districts, including styles from the 1840s through the late 1920s. The historic districts include the Albany Downtown Commercial Historic District, the Albany Municipal Airport, the Hackleman Historic District, and the Monteith Historic District. The town boasts more than 700 Queen Anne Victorian homes and Craftsman-style bungalows.

Albany’s population is almost 60,000, in the center of Willamette Valley. Many residents love the old bridges dotted around town and the area’s plentiful outdoor activities, including access to the Willamette River and the Cascade Mountains. It hosts many festivals during the summer season and has a vibrant downtown with plenty to eat and see.

According to Redfin, the average historic home for sale is about $445K.

Centre Park Historic District, Reading, Pennsylvania

The Centre Park Historic District in Pennsylvania was established in 1982. It is in the northwestern part of Reading. The area claimed its name from Centre Park, a green space located in the area and tourist destination.

Most developments occurred between 1895 and 1915, making almost all the homes historic. The area formed when the trolley service made the neighborhood one of Reading’s first neighborhoods and has retained the vintage feel of its inception.

The town has recently gained attention from playwright Lynn Nottage, whose Pulizer-winning, Tony-nominated Broadway play “Sweat” features.

The neighborhood is also conveniently located within walking distance of restaurants, art, and entertainment.

Currently, Centre Park has established a nonprofit neighborhood organization, the Cetre Park Historic Districk Inc., which “promote(s) architectural preservation and enhance(s) neighborhood living.”

Redfin lists historic homes in the area at an average of $377k.

Eureka, California

Eureka is a northern port town in California. The area is loved for its Redwood trees and famous Sequoia Park. The town’s preserved Victorian architecture is also well associated with the region.

Eureka is part of Humboldt County, and its relaxed, untouched coastal atmosphere draws many tourists from neighboring San Francisco and Portland.

The area thrived as a lumber town and many Victorian mansions were built during this period. Today, the entire city is a historic landmark.

Eureka has a bohemian lifestyle, hosting many festivals and art gatherings. It is also home to the Sequoia Park Zoo, which features pandas and is one of the oldest zoos in the United States.

Today, Redfin prices the average historic home at about $410K.

Hampton Heights Historic District, Spartanburg, South Carolina

Hampton Heights has experienced a revitalization, and families have found the area home. Almost one-third of the houses here are on the National Register.

“The neighborhood has become even more desirable due to the development of the downtown area over the last ten years,” said Marshall Jordan, Realtor with Coldwell Banker Caine to Homes.com. “You can easily walk to the popular Morgan Square, restaurants, and shopping.”

The real estate portal lists the average home in the area as $240k.

Springfield Historic District, Jacksonville, Florida.

This historic neighborhood was established in 1869. Springfield is one of the few surviving neighborhoods after a devastating fire destroyed much of the downtown area in 1901.

The neighborhood contains over 1800 homes and features a wide range of styles. According to the SPAR Council, architectural designs include Colonial Revival, Queen Anne, Victorian, Prairie School, Mediterranean, and Bungalow.

The area features plenty of restaurants, nightlife, and parks. The district is close to the city’s downtown. Additionally, Springfield draws crowds for its annual “Porchfest,” an outdoor concert at neighborhood homes. The event attracts over 10,000 people to the area.

According to Realtor.com, the average home sold in the area is 399k. Particularly for Florida, this is an affordable historic home.