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.
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.
| Factor | Johnston | Clive |
|---|---|---|
| Median home price | $340,000 | $330,000 |
| Population | ~24,000 | ~18,000 |
| County | Polk | Polk/Dallas |
| School district | Johnston CSD (top 3 in Iowa) | WDM CSD + Waukee CSD (split) |
| Commute to downtown | 15-20 min to downtown | 15 min to downtown |
| Vibe | established, top schools, mature trees | quiet, residential, trails |
| Amenities | Terra Park, Johnston Trail | Clive Greenbelt Trail, Clive Aquatic Center |
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 $340,000 with a 15-20 min to downtown.
Schools in Johnston: Johnston CSD (top 3 in Iowa).
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).
Free consultation on Des Moines metro suburbs — phone or video. No pressure, no obligation.
Book a Call