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.
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 | Urbandale | Indianola |
|---|---|---|
| Median home price | $285,000 | $270,000 |
| Population | ~45,000 | ~16,000 |
| County | Polk | Warren |
| School district | Urbandale CSD (strong) | Indianola CSD |
| Commute to downtown | 10-15 min to downtown | 25-30 min to downtown |
| Vibe | central, value, established | small-town charm, Simpson College, balloons |
| Amenities | Walnut Creek Park, Living History Farms | Simpson College, National Balloon Classic |
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).
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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