Why Live in Indianola
Indianola, Iowa, located south of Des Moines, offers a small-town atmosphere with a historic college, a vibrant town square and numerous parks. The city is known for supporting the arts, hosting the Des Moines Metro Opera and its summer hot-air balloon festival. Residents enjoy various attractions, including walking and biking trails, and the annual National Balloon Classic, which draws thousands of spectators. Indianola's housing market features a mix of older homes near the original town plat and newer subdivisions from the 1970s to the mid-2020s, with options ranging from traditional brick homes to ranch-style and split-level houses. The Indianola Community School District has Indianola High School, which offers college courses through Des Moines Area Community College. Simpson College, a private Methodist institution, adds to the educational landscape. The city has several parks, including Memorial Park and Amphitheater, Buxton Park and Pickard Park, which hosts summer baseball and softball tournaments. The Indianola Veterans Memorial Aquatic Center and local golf courses provide additional recreational opportunities. Indianola is approximately 20 miles from downtown Des Moines, with many residents commuting via U.S. Highway 69. The city is also 20 minutes from the airport and 30 minutes from major employers in West Des Moines.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to rent a home in Indianola, IA?
The median rent for a home in Indianola, IA is $1,587 per month, though prices vary by neighborhood, size, and property type. As of July 2026, condos tend to be the most affordable option while single-family homes and townhouses are currently more expensive.
How much do you need to make to afford rent in Indianola, IA?
To comfortably afford the median rent in Indianola, IA, a household needs to earn roughly $63,480 per year. This is based on the common guideline that households should spend no more than 30% of gross income on housing. Most landlords require monthly household income of at least 3x the monthly rent, and with a median rent of $1,587 per month in Indianola, IA, renters typically need to show $4,761 per month in gross income to qualify. Actual affordability will vary depending on household debts, other living expenses, and overall budget.
Is it more affordable to rent or buy in Indianola, IA?
In Indianola, IA, the price-to-rent ratio is 16.7, which generally favors renting. This ratio divides the median home price by the annual median rent: below 15 typically favors buying, 15 to 20 is balanced, and above 20 typically favors renting. Your finances, how long you plan to stay, and costs like mortgage rates, taxes, and maintenance all factor into the decision.
What neighborhoods in Indianola, IA are best for renting a home?
The best neighborhood for renting in Indianola, IA depends on your priorities: commute, walkability, budget, and lifestyle all play a role. Popular areas for renting a home include
Downtown Des Moines,
East Village and
Drake, each with its own character and price range.
There are currently 1 homes available for rent in Indianola, IA. The median rent is $1,587 per month, with single-family homes renting at $1,588, townhouses at $2,600 and condos at $1,000.
Number of Homes for Rent
1
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Median Single Family Home Rent
$1,588
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Median Townhouse Rent
$2,600
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