Where Clive began its rise as a desirable suburb. Mature trees, well-maintained homes, and West Des Moines' schools—the trifecta families seek.
Indian Hills was among the first neighborhoods that established Clive's reputation for quality living—and four decades later, that appeal hasn't faded.
Developed in the late 1970s and early 1980s, Indian Hills represents what suburban living was meant to be: tree-lined streets, well-maintained homes with character, and a tight-knit community where neighbors know each other. This wasn't cookie-cutter development—it was thoughtful planning that created a neighborhood people love.
Walnut Creek flows along the neighborhood's edge, connecting to the 11-mile Clive Greenbelt Trail. Indian Hills Junior High School sits within the neighborhood, and Valley High School—ranked fourth-best public high school in Iowa—is just a short drive away. For families prioritizing schools, few locations deliver better.
The homes here, typically 1,500-2,500 square feet, offer the quality construction of their era with many now thoughtfully updated. Prices reflect strong value for a West Des Moines Schools address, which matters to buyers moving up and to owners downsizing who want to stay in the district.
Four decades of community, character, and convenient living
Decades-old trees line quiet streets, providing shade, privacy, and the established character that newer developments can't replicate. This is what "grown-in" looks like.
Access to one of Iowa's premier districts. Indian Hills Junior High is literally in the neighborhood, and Valley High School (9/10) is minutes away.
Walnut Creek runs along the neighborhood, connecting to the 11-mile Clive Greenbelt Trail. Walk, bike, or run without getting in your car.
This is a neighborhood where people stay. Long-term residents, active neighborhood association, and the kind of community feel that takes years to develop.
University Avenue and Hickman Road put shopping, dining, and services nearby. Valley West Mall, Jordan Creek, downtown Des Moines—all within easy reach.
West Des Moines Schools, established character, and greenbelt access at prices below newer construction. The value proposition is hard to beat.
West Des Moines Community Schools
Multiple excellent elementary options serve Indian Hills depending on exact location. All deliver the WDM quality families expect.
9401 Indian Hills Dr • Located IN the neighborhood • Grades 7-8 • 659 students • Strong academics with B+ Niche rating
Dedicated freshman campus preparing students for Valley High School's rigorous academics.
3650 Woodland Ave • #4 best public high school in Iowa (Niche) • 190+ courses • 95%+ graduation rate
Strong demand for West Des Moines Schools + established character
Indian Hills draws two main kinds of buyers: those prioritizing West Des Moines Schools who want more home for their money than newer areas offer, and owners downsizing who want to keep a West Des Moines Schools address for resale value.
The $325,000-$425,000 range offers the best selection of updated homes with the mature landscaping and character that define this neighborhood. Original-condition homes may be available at lower price points for buyers willing to invest in updates.
Best Strategy: Look for homes with updated mechanicals (HVAC, electrical, plumbing) even if cosmetics need work. The "bones" in Indian Hills are solid—1970s-80s construction was built to last. I help buyers distinguish between cosmetic updates and essential infrastructure improvements.
I flag insurability concerns to help Indian Hills buyers navigate older home considerations, then connect you with licensed insurance producers
Homes from this era may have original electrical panels, polybutylene plumbing, or other systems insurers scrutinize. I flag potential issues before they become surprises and connect you with licensed insurance producers.
Updated roofs and HVAC systems can affect insurability and rates. I flag update dates and help buyers document them for licensed insurance producers to review.
Those beautiful mature trees require assessment. Tree health, proximity to structures, and potential liability all factor into proper coverage.
Older homes with quality construction and updated features can cost more to replace than builders-grade new construction. I flag this replacement-cost gap and connect you with licensed insurance producers to confirm proper coverage from the start.
Schedule a consultation to find your established Clive home in Indian Hills.
Smart Move Des Moines • Brokered by Fathom Realty
REALTOR® SRES® CPCU® • Senior Transition Specialist
Taxes, schools, HOA rules, what a specific house would net, whether now is the time: send the question and the address if there is one. You get a written answer within 1 business day, usually the same day. No call required.
Prefer to talk? Book a 30-minute call or call (563) 513-8771.