Side-by-side comparison of two top Des Moines metro suburbs — prices, schools, commute, amenities, and lifestyle.
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.
Grimes is the better choice if you prioritize new construction value with lower property taxes. Watch out for: longer commute than other top suburbs.
| Factor | Urbandale | Grimes |
|---|---|---|
| Median home price | $285,000 | $350,000 |
| Population | ~45,000 | ~16,000 |
| County | Polk | Polk/Dallas |
| School district | Urbandale CSD (strong) | Dallas Center-Grimes CSD |
| Commute to downtown | 10-15 min to downtown | 20-25 min to downtown |
| Vibe | central, value, established | new construction, small-town feel, fast-growing |
| Amenities | Walnut Creek Park, Living History Farms | Kennybrook Village CCRC, new retail corridor |
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).
Grimes sits in Polk/Dallas County with a population of about ~16,000. The vibe is new construction, small-town feel, fast-growing, with amenities including Kennybrook Village CCRC, new retail corridor. Median home prices run around $350,000 with a 20-25 min to downtown.
Schools in Grimes: Dallas Center-Grimes CSD.
Free consultation on Des Moines metro suburbs — phone or video. No pressure, no obligation.
Book a Call