Side-by-side comparison of two top Des Moines metro suburbs — prices, schools, commute, amenities, and lifestyle.
Clive is the better choice if you prioritize quiet streets and best trail system in the metro. Watch out for: fewer amenities than neighboring West Des Moines.
Indianola is the better choice if you prioritize most affordable town-center feel in the metro area. Watch out for: longest commute of the top suburbs.
| Factor | Clive | Indianola |
|---|---|---|
| Median home price | $330,000 | $270,000 |
| Population | ~18,000 | ~16,000 |
| County | Polk/Dallas | Warren |
| School district | WDM CSD + Waukee CSD (split) | Indianola CSD |
| Commute to downtown | 15 min to downtown | 25-30 min to downtown |
| Vibe | quiet, residential, trails | small-town charm, Simpson College, balloons |
| Amenities | Clive Greenbelt Trail, Clive Aquatic Center | Simpson College, National Balloon Classic |
Clive sits in Polk/Dallas County with a population of about ~18,000. The vibe is quiet, residential, trails, with amenities including Clive Greenbelt Trail, Clive Aquatic Center. Median home prices run around $330,000 with a 15 min to downtown.
Schools in Clive: WDM CSD + Waukee CSD (split).
Indianola sits in Warren County with a population of about ~16,000. The vibe is small-town charm, Simpson College, balloons, with amenities including Simpson College, National Balloon Classic. Median home prices run around $270,000 with a 25-30 min to downtown.
Schools in Indianola: Indianola CSD.
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