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.
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 | Johnston | Indianola |
|---|---|---|
| Median home price | $340,000 | $270,000 |
| Population | ~24,000 | ~16,000 |
| County | Polk | Warren |
| School district | Johnston CSD (top 3 in Iowa) | Indianola CSD |
| Commute to downtown | 15-20 min to downtown | 25-30 min to downtown |
| Vibe | established, top schools, mature trees | small-town charm, Simpson College, balloons |
| Amenities | Terra Park, Johnston Trail | Simpson College, National Balloon Classic |
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).
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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