Houses We Worship: We Give Praise to 10 Former Churches Currently for Sale

As new churches are built and opened across the U.S., what happens to the decommissioned homes of worship—many of which are historic and architecturally fascinating structures? They go on the selling block! The next chapter for many of these formerly holy places is the transformation into a private home.

Imagine the sense of calm when walking through the front door each night and the sight of beautiful stained-glass windows. Or entertaining friends in acoustically sound communal spaces.

The possibilities are endless. The best part? Asking prices are generally low, so your monthly tithing to your mortgage lender won't require you to pass the hat. We found 10 former churches for sale and, with one notable exception, you'll be left with a generous budget for tackling heavenly renovations. Take a walk with us as we peruse these holy opportunities.

48 Madison St, Sag Harbor, NY

Price: $11 million

Congregation comments: You'll need divine intervention if you don't have deep pockets. This former church in the Hamptons dates to 1835 and is fresh off an architect-led makeover. Dubbed 48 Madison, the 13,000-square-foot building sits on a half-acre lot and features a wide-open floor plan. It’s only a block off Main Street and comes with plans for additional luxury perks, including an infinity pool and indoor spa.

516 W. Hopkins St, San Marcos, TX

Price: $480,000

Congregation comments: With its fully restored interior and vibrantly colored exterior, this former church built in 1901 is begging for a second chance—perhaps as an art gallery or Airbnb? The two-story residence features a vaulted ceiling in the living room, walk-in closets, and a master suite.

Muddy Bayou, MS

Price: $84,500

Congregation comments: While this former Presbyterian church in the Deep South will require tons of TLC and perhaps a little prayer, the bones are solid. Its exterior features red bricks and green shutters, gables, and a bell tower. Built in 1832, it’s on the National Register of Historic Places and was the site of a battle during the Civil War.

7065 Hopkins Neck Rd, Royal Oak, MD

Price: $399,000

Congregation comments: This Victorian-era church is now a two-bedroom home with traditional details such as arched windows and a bell tower. Concessions to modern life include a detached two-car garage.

1576 Blair Creek Rd, Little Marsh, PA

Price: $59,900

Congregation comments: Beyond the white exterior and cherry-red doors of this charming former church—built in 1901—lies a sanctuary with two half-baths, as well as room to create three bedrooms—all on a shoestring budget.

136 W. Church St, Cambridge City, IN

Price: $114,900

Congregation comments: Twenty-six stained-glass windows in immaculate condition, plus a fireplace dating to 1935, add historic charm to this former church built in 1856. Recent renovations include a stage with sound system (future concert venue?) and a living space featuring four bedrooms and three baths.

900 N. Duquoin St, Benton, IL

Price: $275,000

Congregation comments: Fan of Mid-Century Modern design? Built in 1965, this building has all the right bones. At nearly 6,000 square feet, the former church now has four en suite bedrooms, a loft-style great room, and cathedral ceilings. A 2.5-acre lot provides plenty of room for expansion.

1757 287 Hwy, Morris, PA

Price: $63,900

Congregation comments: While the listing suggests this could be the perfect “hunting cabin or retreat center,” it could also be one’s home, thanks to the already converted four-bedroom living space on the lower level. The pews in the sanctuary are in pristine condition, and a stream runs nearby for some nature-inspired contemplation.

6615 County Road 55, Salineville, OH

Price: $109,900

Congregation comments: While the conversion to residential space (the building was formerly an Assembly of God church) is at the buyer's discretion, there's abundant space to create a home worthy of praise. The 2,400-square-foot building sits on a 1.18-acre lot and has 2.5 baths. The current kitchenette and two large gathering spaces would be great for hosting parties or just enjoying some capacious serenity.

123 S. 2nd St, Fowlerville, MI

Price: $225,000

Congregation comments: Built in 1909, this classic brick church is intact with a gorgeous chapel marked by stunning stained-glass windows and woodwork. It's being used as an event facility and is currently hosting weddings through May. Also included in the sale is a 600-pipe theater organ! The living space includes a master suite, second bedroom, and recently updated kitchen.

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