Side-by-side comparison of two top Des Moines metro suburbs — prices, schools, commute, amenities, and lifestyle.
Johnston is the better choice if you prioritize top-3 school district in Iowa. Watch out for: less new construction than Waukee or Grimes.
Altoona is the better choice if you prioritize east-side value with strong job growth. Watch out for: farther from Jordan Creek / west-metro amenities.
| Factor | Johnston | Altoona |
|---|---|---|
| Median home price | $390,000 | $340,000 |
| Population | ~24,000 | ~20,000 |
| County | Polk | Polk |
| School district | Johnston CSD (top 3 in Iowa) | Southeast Polk CSD |
| Commute to downtown | 15-20 min to downtown | 15 min to downtown |
| Vibe | established, top schools, mature trees | east-metro affordability, growing with Meta/Facebook |
| Amenities | Terra Park, Johnston Trail | Prairie Meadows, Adventureland, Outlets |
Johnston sits in Polk County with a population of about ~24,000. The vibe is established, top schools, mature trees, with amenities including Terra Park, Johnston Trail. Median home prices run around $390,000 with a 15-20 min to downtown.
Schools in Johnston: Johnston CSD (top 3 in Iowa).
Altoona sits in Polk County with a population of about ~20,000. The vibe is east-metro affordability, growing with Meta/Facebook, with amenities including Prairie Meadows, Adventureland, Outlets. Median home prices run around $340,000 with a 15 min to downtown.
Schools in Altoona: Southeast Polk CSD.
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