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.
Norwalk is the better choice if you prioritize cheapest strong-school-district suburb in the metro. Watch out for: smaller retail and dining scene.
| Factor | Johnston | Norwalk |
|---|---|---|
| Median home price | $390,000 | $345,000 |
| Population | ~24,000 | ~14,000 |
| County | Polk | Warren |
| School district | Johnston CSD (top 3 in Iowa) | Norwalk CSD (strong) |
| Commute to downtown | 15-20 min to downtown | 15-20 min to downtown |
| Vibe | established, top schools, mature trees | affordable family value, small-town feel |
| Amenities | Terra Park, Johnston Trail | parks and trails, neighborhood retail |
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).
Norwalk sits in Warren County with a population of about ~14,000. The vibe is affordable family value, small-town feel, with amenities including parks and trails, neighborhood retail. Median home prices run around $345,000 with a 15-20 min to downtown.
Schools in Norwalk: Norwalk CSD (strong).
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