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.
Urbandale is the better choice if you prioritize geographic sweet spot of the metro. Watch out for: schools strong but not top-5 like Waukee/Ankeny/Johnston.
| Factor | Johnston | Urbandale |
|---|---|---|
| Median home price | $340,000 | $285,000 |
| Population | ~24,000 | ~45,000 |
| County | Polk | Polk |
| School district | Johnston CSD (top 3 in Iowa) | Urbandale CSD (strong) |
| Commute to downtown | 15-20 min to downtown | 10-15 min to downtown |
| Vibe | established, top schools, mature trees | central, value, established |
| Amenities | Terra Park, Johnston Trail | Walnut Creek Park, Living History Farms |
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).
Urbandale sits in Polk County with a population of about ~45,000. The vibe is central, value, established, with amenities including Walnut Creek Park, Living History Farms. Median home prices run around $285,000 with a 10-15 min to downtown.
Schools in Urbandale: Urbandale CSD (strong).
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