Welcome to Urbandale
Iowa's most conveniently located suburb — where everything is close
The Perfect Balance of Established & Accessible
Urbandale is the Des Moines metro's geographic sweet spot — centrally located with easy access to every corner of the region. It's where established neighborhoods meet modern convenience, where mature trees line streets of well-maintained homes, and where you're genuinely 10-15 minutes from anywhere you need to go. When exploring Des Moines metro neighborhoods, Urbandale consistently stands out for its unbeatable location.
What makes Urbandale special is the combination of stability and convenience. This isn't a new development trying to find its identity — Urbandale has been thriving since the 1960s. The community is mature, the infrastructure is proven, the schools are solid, and the location simply cannot be beat. Use our neighborhood comparison tool to see how Urbandale stacks up against Johnston, Waukee, and other growing suburbs.
Urbandale attracts buyers who want established neighborhoods with character, not cookie-cutter new developments. Families love the mature parks and tree-lined streets. Professionals appreciate the convenient commute. Everyone benefits from Urbandale's strategic position. For families weighing their options, our guide to choosing the right Des Moines neighborhood can help you make the best decision.
Quick Facts
- County: Polk & Dallas
- ZIP Codes: 50322, 50323
- School District: Urbandale CSD
- Founded: 1917
- Population: 45,000+
- Median Income: $85,000
- Crime Rate: Very low
- Character: Established, central
📍 The Urbandale Convenience Factor
Time is the most valuable resource we have. Urbandale gives you more of it. From the geographic center of the metro, you reach every major employment center, shopping district, and entertainment venue in 10-15 minutes. This isn't marketing hype — it's measurable reality. Whether you're commuting to Downtown Des Moines or heading to Jordan Creek, Urbandale puts you in the middle of it all.
10 min
West Des Moines, Jordan Creek, Clive, Merle Hay Mall
12 min
Downtown Des Moines, Principal, Wells Fargo, State Capitol
15 min
Des Moines Airport, Ankeny, Johnston, Waukee
20 min
Gray's Lake, Saylorville Lake, Adventureland
25 min
Anywhere in the metro — every corner within reach
0 min
Living History Farms (500 acres right in Urbandale!)
The Math That Matters: If you commute 5 days/week, choosing Urbandale over a distant suburb saves you 5-10 hours per week in driving time. That's 260-520 hours per year — equivalent to 6-13 extra weeks of your life. Relocating to the Des Moines area? Our Des Moines relocation guide explains why Urbandale is a smart move.
Urbandale Community Schools
Solid education with strong community support
Academic Quality
- Consistent 8-9/10 ratings across grades
- 94%+ graduation rate
- Strong AP and honors programs
- Excellent career and technical pathways
- High college acceptance rates
- Focus on student success
Activities & Sports
- Urbandale J-Hawks (competitive athletics)
- State championship programs
- Outstanding band and music
- Theater and performing arts
- Extensive club offerings
- Strong community support
📚 Urbandale Schools Value
Urbandale schools consistently deliver 8-9/10 education — excellent preparation for college and careers without the premium price tag of West Des Moines or Waukee homes. For families who value good schools but also appreciate saving $50K-$100K on their home purchase, Urbandale hits the sweet spot. Use our Des Moines mortgage calculator to see how those savings translate to your monthly payment.
Urbandale Lifestyle & Amenities
Mature community with everything you need
Living History Farms
500-acre outdoor history museum:
- National treasure in Urbandale
- 300+ years of Midwest history
- Working historic farms and town
- Educational programs year-round
- Special events and festivals
- Unique Urbandale feature!
Parks & Recreation
40+ parks throughout Urbandale:
- Walker Johnston Park (90+ acres)
- Lion's Park (sports complex)
- Multiple neighborhood parks
- 60+ miles of trails
- Urbandale Public Library
- Year-round recreation programs
Shopping & Dining
Convenient access to everything:
- Merle Hay Mall (in Urbandale)
- Jordan Creek (10 minutes)
- Local restaurants and shops
- Hy-Vee, Target, Walmart nearby
- West Des Moines dining
- Growing local business scene
Neighborhood Character
Established community feel:
- Mature trees and landscaping
- Mix of home styles and ages
- Well-maintained properties
- Sidewalks throughout
- Friendly, welcoming neighbors
- Pride of ownership evident
Urbandale for Seniors & Long-Time Residents
Age-friendly options in a convenient location
Aging in Place & 55+ Options
Urbandale's established neighborhoods include many single-level ranch homes ideal for seniors and accessibility needs. For those exploring 55+ communities, our Central Iowa 55+ living guide covers options throughout Urbandale and the metro. Learn more about our Senior Real Estate Specialist services.
Planning Your Next Chapter
Whether you're downsizing from a larger Urbandale home or considering a move closer to family, our senior move timeline and cost calculator helps you plan every step. Thinking about selling? Our home sale readiness calculator shows what you might walk away with. Learn more about Sarah's approach as a Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES®).
Urbandale Real Estate Market
December 2025 — Stable, established market with steady demand
💡 Sarah's Market Insights
Urbandale's market reflects its maturity and stability — not a boom-or-bust suburb, but steady and reliable. The $300K median sits comfortably between affordable suburbs like Pleasant Hill and premium communities, offering excellent value for the location. Buyers choose Urbandale for convenience first, then discover the community's other strengths. The housing stock ranges from 1960s ranches to modern new builds. Established neighborhoods near Living History Farms and Walker Johnston Park command premiums. The $275K-$350K range sees most activity. Best opportunities: well-maintained 1980s-1990s homes in established neighborhoods needing only cosmetic updates. For more market insights, visit our Des Moines real estate blog.
⚠️ Insurance Considerations for Urbandale
As a property insurance expert with 10+ years of experience and an Urbandale resident myself, I help buyers identify potential insurability issues BEFORE making an offer. Learn more about my background and why this expertise matters. Here's what to know:
🏠 Mixed Housing Stock
Urbandale homes range from 1960s ranches to 2020s new construction. Insurance varies significantly by home age. Homes from 2000s onward generally insure easily with competitive rates.
⚡ Older Home Concerns
For homes 40+ years old, carriers scrutinize electrical systems, plumbing condition, roof age (15+ years needs replacement), and HVAC age. I help identify these during showings.
🌪️ Iowa Storm Risk
Like all of Iowa, Urbandale experiences severe weather. Hail and wind are primary concerns. Many roofs were replaced after 2011 and 2018 hail storms. Request documentation.
💧 Minimal Flood Risk
Most of Urbandale sits above flood zones. Some properties near Walnut Creek may have considerations. Basement sump pumps are common — verify proper function.
💰 Typical Insurance Costs
Expect $1,100-$1,700/year for typical Urbandale home ($300K value). Newer homes (post-2000) see rates $1,100-$1,300. Older homes trend higher. Shop multiple carriers.
✅ Sarah's Pre-Purchase Review
Living in Urbandale, I know which neighborhoods have older housing stock. I review: roof age, electrical system, plumbing condition, HVAC, foundation, and prior claims history. Schedule a consultation to discuss.
🎯 Bottom Line for Urbandale Buyers
Urbandale's housing diversity means insurance varies widely. Newer homes insure easily with competitive rates. Older homes need careful evaluation. Budget $1,100-$1,700/year depending on home age. As an Urbandale resident and insurance expert, I provide invaluable local knowledge. Explore all our free real estate tools and calculators to prepare for your purchase.
📲 Search Urbandale Homes on the Go
Get Central Iowa's only AI-powered real estate app. Track Urbandale listings, save favorites, get instant alerts, and compare neighborhoods.
Urbandale Homes for Sale
Current listings in Urbandale's established neighborhoods
🏠 Find Your Urbandale Home
Browse current Urbandale listings or get personalized recommendations. Planning your move? Our 8-week moving checklist keeps you organized.
See Homes for Sale in UrbandaleReady for Urbandale's Central Convenience?
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Sarah Ingles
Your Urbandale expert. As a resident myself, I know the neighborhoods, the schools, and the community. My insurance background helps identify potential issues before they become problems. Learn more about my approach.