Parnell, IA

Parnell is a tiny, quiet town in Iowa County with around 200 residents, tucked into the rolling countryside just south of Williamsburg. The community has deep Irish roots and an unusual backstory: in 1884, when the Milwaukee Railroad laid tracks through the area, families in nearby Lytle City literally picked up their houses and shops and moved three miles west to meet the rails. Named after Irish leader Charles Stewart Parnell, the new settlement quickly became a thriving farm town complete with its own bank, stores, and opera house.

Today, Parnell offers a peaceful, slow-paced lifestyle where open farm country surrounds every street. Historic landmarks like St. Joseph’s Catholic Church still reflect the town's heritage, while the community stays true to its close-knit rural roots. For anyone looking for plenty of breathing room, quiet living, and a simple commute into Williamsburg or Iowa City, Parnell is an easygoing spot to settle down.