This $59,000 Underground House Looks Like a Hidden Cave—But There’s a Costly Catch

For just $59,000, a one-of-a-kind underground home in Illinois could offer buyers the chance to own something straight out of a fantasy. Hidden beneath the earth, the unusual property features stone-covered walls, winding arched hallways, and a bathtub surrounded by rocks, creating the atmosphere of a mysterious natural cave. But beneath its fascinating design lies one major problem that could turn this seemingly affordable bargain into a costly renovation project.

Built in 1977 by Andy “Caveman” Davis in Armington, Illinois, the approximately 2,300-square-foot home was designed with a practical purpose in mind: using the surrounding earth to help regulate indoor temperatures and reduce energy costs. Yet the house became much more than an experiment in unconventional living. It also became a deeply personal creation, with rocks collected during family trips to Colorado carefully incorporated into its interior.

The result is a home unlike almost anything else on the market. Rounded windows, curved passageways, rugged stonework, and a cave-inspired bathtub give the property a distinctive character that traditional houses simply cannot replicate. Even its concrete exterior and earth-covered roof reflect Davis’s original vision of blending the home into its natural surroundings.

Now listed for $59,000, the property presents an intriguing opportunity for anyone willing to think outside the box. Its potential five-bedroom layout offers plenty of possibilities, whether a buyer dreams of creating a unique private residence, a vacation retreat, or even a rental property.

But there’s a catch: the house still needs substantial work. The kitchen and several interior spaces remain unfinished, meaning the low asking price is only the beginning of the financial commitment. Turning this underground curiosity into a comfortable, finished home could require a significant investment of money, time, and effort.

For the right buyer, this hidden cave-like house could become an extraordinary dream home. For someone unprepared for the renovation, however, that $59,000 price tag could be just the first surprise.