Clive’s slogan, Distinct by Nature, highlights the rolling greenbelt along Walnut Creek that backs up to many subdivisions. An 11-mile paved trail provides residents with easy access to nature in their own backyards. Smaller than some of the area's other cities, Clive is narrowly shaped, sliding between Urbandale, West Des Moines and Waukee with overlapping school districts and retail centers. As the whole of the Des Moines metro area grows, new construction has been popping up in Clive.
Clive Lake is surrounded by some of the most beautiful homes in the area.
Walkers, joggers, and bikers can all use the Clive Greenbelt Trail at the same time.
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How Clive blends classic character with contemporary style
The city's oldest homes in Indian Hills hail from the 1970s and 1980s, though exterior updates are common. "Clive is constantly reinvigorating itself," says Stephanie Wright, a local Realtor at Re/Max Precision and resident of over 40 years. "Houses go through multiple remodels, so they retain their character but feel more modern." To the west are contemporary single-family homes, townhouses, and Country Club, a private community of custom homes on Clive Lake. “The homes are mostly luxury-type homes and are a little more expensive,” says Kris Mehmen, a Realtor with Re/Max Precision who sells in the area. Those wanting new construction can choose a floor plan and build in an upcoming subdivision on the far northwest side of town.
Western Clive offers newer, larger homes.
The eastern side features brick and stone ranches with large backyards.
Out west, residents can live in larger modern homes with four or five bedrooms.
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How Clive compares to nearby cities on housing costs
The median price for a home in Clive is in the low $400,000, which is higher than nearby cities like Waukee and West Des Moines. "Like Waukee, Clive is also up-and-coming," says Shane Kennedy, Clive resident and local agent with eXp Realty. "It feels almost a part of these other communities – it all kind of blends together." New two-story and ranch-style homes start in the high $200,000s, while larger homes with up to six bedrooms can go as high as over $2 million. The average single-family home is a little over 2,000 square feet with a median lot size of a little over a quarter of an acre. Townhouse prices are typically in the mid $300,000s.
How school zoning works between Polk and Dallas Counties
The eastern section of the city in Polk County is served by the West Des Moines Community School District, while students to the west in Dallas County can attend schools in the Waukee Community School District. The dividing line between the two districts is 142nd Street. High school students in either district can take dual enrollment credits online or in person through the Des Moines Area Community College system. According to the state’s open enrollment policy, families can enroll their students in a school district of their choice if there are spots available.
Indian Hills Junior High School is the only school within the neighborhood boundaries
Eason Elementary School takes great pride in inspiring its students.
Waukee High School serves half of Waukee's students in grades 10-12.
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Interstates 80, 35 and 235 give drivers multiple ways to get around
Interstates 80 and 35 converge in Clive before crossing paths with Interstate 235. This system of freeways leads to employers in Downtown Des Moines and surrounding suburbs, or to Des Moines International Airport. Construction will continue here through 2028 as a $94 million project combats growing traffic with a new interchange and more lanes on Hickman Road. “My husband will say, ‘Why hasn’t this road been extended yet?’ And I’ll say ‘Because it’s where Clive, West Des Moines and Urbandale come together, and they all have to agree,’” Mehmen says. Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority also operates four local bus routes through Clive to downtown Des Moines and more.
The city's welcoming water tower.
Metal sculptures grab attention at 86th & University.
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Biking the Greenbelt Trail and preserving surrounding wildlife
The Clive Greenbelt Trail passes by several parks on its path through forested and residential areas, like the Campbell Recreation Area baseball diamonds, tennis courts and gazebos. During the warmer months, the Clive Greenbelt Goats graze on invasive species to help keep the park healthy. Through the Clive Parks and Recreation department, you can:
Go swimming at the Clive Aquatic Center with a daily admission or a season pass.
Visit one of the seven city-owned ponds that are stocked with Large Mouth Bass, Bluegills and Channel Catfish for fishing.
Play games at the Harbach Center’s arcade, gaming lounge and recreation bay.
Clive Greenbelt Trail is a popular recreational thoroughfare that mirrors Walnut Creek for miles
Greenbelt Park offers a break from the trail in a neighborhood park setting.
The Clive Greenbelt Trail culminates at beautiful Clive Lake.
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Written By
Joyelle Ronan
Photography Contributed By
Drew Davis
Video By
Colleen Carey
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Brandon Winn,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Clive, IA sell after 68 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Clive, IA over the last 12 months is $410,000, down 7% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Take a look at this beautifully designed 6-bedroom, 5-bathroom home with over 3,400 square feet of finished space, thoughtfully laid out to serve a purpose. From the moment you enter, the natural light and waterfall-edge quartz island in the kitchen showcase the craftsmanship throughout. Just off the kitchen, you?ll find a convenient half bath, a tucked-away mudroom, and easy access to the
CUL DE SAC and WAUKEE NW schools- this is the one! This well cared for, unique 5 bedroom, 3 bath ranch home has many unique features such as the gorgeous, tiled fireplace, accent walls, unique lighting and so much more. The home has so much natural light, with its large windows across the back of the home, extra windows in the front office, and windows in the garage doors. The spacious kitchen
Looking for a unique home with captivating European details? This SKS Homes masterpiece showcases unmatched craftsmanship in Clive’s sought-after Shadow Creek West within the Waukee School District. With 2,568 SF on the main level, the foyer welcomes you with custom lighted art detail. The chef’s kitchen features a striking Taj Mahal quartzite island and backsplash, custom cabinetry, SS
The Cadbury offers 3,109 square feet of well-designed space, featuring 5 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, and a 3-car garageall on a single story. The main level includes a generous great room that flows seamlessly into a modern kitchen and dining area, creating an ideal space for gatherings. The primary suite provides a private retreat with a spacious bath and walk-in closet. Additional bedrooms offer
The Palmer is a refined and thoughtfully designed ranch plan that brings together open living, timeless design, and everyday functionality. With over 3,200 finished square feet, this home is perfectly suited for both entertaining and relaxed living.Upon entry, the home opens to a light-filled great room with a fireplace and expansive windows. The gourmet kitchen features a large center island,
The Cadbury offers 3,109 square feet of well-designed space, featuring 5 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, and a 3-car garageall on a single story. The main level includes a generous great room that flows seamlessly into a modern kitchen and dining area, creating an ideal space for gatherings. The primary suite provides a private retreat with a spacious bath and walk-in closet. Additional bedrooms offer
The Palmer is a refined and thoughtfully designed ranch plan that brings together open living, timeless design, and everyday functionality. With over 3,200 finished square feet, this home is perfectly suited for both entertaining and relaxed living.Upon entry, the home opens to a light-filled great room with a fireplace and expansive windows. The gourmet kitchen features a large center island,
Make every day feel like a getaway in this stunning luxury home, where the backyard steals the show and unforgettable memories are waiting to be made. Enjoy summer days in your heated & cooled 15' x 30' saltwater pool complete with auto cover, sun deck, fountains, and evening lighting - followed by nights on the extended patio or screened-in deck with friends & family. Professional landscaping &
Gorgeous home priced OVER $50,000 less than the cost to build just 2.5 years ago & over $30,000 BELOW assessed value this stunning Black Birch Homes ranch in the highly desired Shadow Creek neighborhood has it all; 4br, (one perfect for a dedicated office), 5ba, & over 3,700sqft of high-end living space. The setting doesn’t get much better! Perfectly positioned on a premium lot backing to trees &
With over 4,500 square feet of thoughtfully designed space, the Danbury offers five bedrooms, five bathrooms, and generous living areas across three levels. Enjoy the grandeur of a 22 great room, a luxurious primary suite, a chef-inspired kitchen, and seamless indoor-outdoor entertaining with a covered deck and patio. From the stylish loft to the walkout lower level with wet bar and family room,
This thoughtfully designed ranch where style and comfort come together effortlessly. Step inside to a space that feels both elevated and inviting, with a bright family room featuring a tray ceiling and a custom fireplace that anchors the home beautifully. High-quality doors, trim, and finishes throughout add a level of craftsmanship you can feel the moment you walk in. The kitchen has already
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Welcome to Stonegate Crossing, your dream community where comfort, leisure, and entertainment are designed with your lifestyle in mind. With a prime location and top-tier amenities, our pet-friendly apartments for rent in Clive, Iowa, have everything you need to feel right at home.
HICKMAN HILL APARTMENTS OFFER A LARGE, 720 SQ. FOOT SPACE PLAN. ALL UNITS ARE ONE BEDROOM AND ONE BATH WITH A DEDICATED AREA FOR DINING. MOST UNITS HAVE BALCONIES OR PATIOS. PLENTY OF ON-SITE PARKING IS AVAILABLE. WE ARE A SHORT DRIVE TO DOWNTOWN WITH QUICK ACCESS TO ALL MAJOR INTERSTATE HIGHWAYS. OUR COMMUNITY IS SMALL WITH ONLY 18 APARTMENTS. WE ARE SMOKE FREE, PET FRIENDLY, WHERE RESIDENTS
Receive second month's rent free with a 13 month lease, or second and third month's rent free with a 26 month lease!!Luxurious, ONE OF A KIND!! See to believe, 4 bed, 4 bath, end unit Townhome in Clive. Combined Square footage totalling 2445 makes these so spacious. Open metal railing to basement and second floor, 9ft ceilings on main, 10ft in Primary Bedroom, LVP all on main floor, Great
Welcome to your new home in Waukee, IA! This apartment complex offers a variety of amenities designed to enhance your living experience. Enjoy the refreshing outdoor pool during the warm summer months, or keep up with your fitness goals in our state-of-the-art fitness center. The clubhouse is a perfect place to socialize and meet your neighbors, while the playground area provides a fun and safe
Redwood Waukee Douglas Parkway is where you'll find the single-story apartment rental you've been looking for. Live in a two-bedroom, two-bathroom, pet-friendly home with an attached garage. Enjoy being surrounded by greenery, with all the amenities of the Waukee community just a stone's throw away. Commute to the hustle and bustle of Des Moines in just 30 minutes, while you feel right at home in
Welcome to West Light Apartments in Waukee, IA! Our community offers an exceptional living experience with a prime location and top-notch amenities. Stay active and fit in our state-of-the-art fitness center, perfect for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Take a refreshing dip in our resort-style rooftop pool, where you can relax and unwind after a long day. Need to catch up on work?
Sherwood Glen Apartments in Urbandale, IA offer a quality living environment with a prestigious address. This community is nestled on a terraced hillside where pine, oak and evergreen trees provide shade and beauty. Downtown is just minutes away with Valley West and Merle Hay Malls a mere ten-minute drive. For the best pet-friendly apartments in Urbandale, IA, join us at Sherwood Glen.
The Right Price Promise is simple. The price we show is the rent you pay. You'll be amazed by all the perks included in your rent. Each month, you'll pay your rent and utilities. Anything more is optional.The Flats Apartments is the home you've been looking for in West Des Moines, IA. With comfortable studio, one-, and two-bedroom homes complete with stainless steel appliances, patios,
Welcome to Windsor Chateau, a premier apartment community nestled in the heart of Windsor Heights, IA. Our residents enjoy the convenience of 24-hour emergency maintenance, ensuring peace of mind at all hours. Each of our tastefully updated units comes with a full appliance package, making everyday tasks a breeze. On-site laundry facilities add to the convenience, while the availability of
Experience a new quality lifestyle at Holcomb Place, located in Urbandale, IA. Holcomb Place offers spacious 1 and 2 bedroom floor plans with executive finishes. Our beautiful neighborhood provides convenient access to the freeway, interstate, and close proximity to an array of dining, shopping, and entertainment venues. Call today to reserve your new home or to request an application.
With Walnut Creek serenely flowing by, Indian Hills is a residential community with well-maintained homes, outstanding schools and convenient access to area shops and restaurants. “This is a little neighborhood inside the city of Clive,” says Jarod Snover, a local real estate agent who has been servicing the greater Des Moines area at Iowa Realty Mills Crossing. “It is centrally located to the greater Des Moines metro area with easy access to everything, and yet it still maintains a small-town feel.”
A quintessential neighborhood with well-maintained homes, tree-lined streets and neatly trimmed lawns, Indian Hills paints a picture of the idyllic suburban lifestyle. “This was one of the first desirable suburbs that took off in the late 1970s and the early 1980s, and the area has retained its charm and character and its community feel,” adds Snover. While many homes are built in two-story Colonial Revival, raised ranch and ranch-style architecture, one will occasionally find a property decorated with moonstone or a more contemporary façade. Most properties are about 1,500 to 2,000 square feet and fall in the price range of $300,000 to $450,000; there are a handful of homes slightly over 3,000 square feet that run closer to $500,000.
Young scholars may begin schooling at Crossroads Park Elementary, which has an A-minus Niche rating. Students can then continue to attend Indian Hills Junior High, which is ranked B-plus by Niche. Valley High School provides more than 190 courses and is ranked by Niche as the fourth-best public high school in Iowa with an overall A Niche score.
Greenbelt Park has wide open green spaces, access to walking trails and an onsite playground and softball fields. The nearby Clive Aquatic Center is known for its expansive outdoor swimming options and recreational programs. Additional pocket parks such as Karp Park, Rio Valley Park and Walnut Ridge Park are scattered throughout the neighborhood, offering verdant grounds, a play area and sports facilities. The Clive Greenbelt Trail has 11 miles of paved nature trails, where residents can escape the city and enjoy nature. Neighboring parks include Campbell Recreation Area in Clive and Greenwood Park, which provides additional options. Des Moines Golf and Country Club, which is about 5 miles to the west, has two 18-hole golf courses, tennis courts and swimming pools.
Fareway Grocery, Target, The Home Depot and Valley West Mall are all located along University Avenue, meeting all kinds of shopping needs right in the neighborhood. Local restaurants include Mi Mexico Restaurant, a casual cantina, and Baker’s Square, which is a family restaurant with casual food and signature baked pies. About 6 miles to the east, Merle Hay Mall has additional department stores, a movie theater and a bowling alley for outings with family and friends.
The annual Clive Festival takes place at the Clive Aquatic Center with fireworks, live music and a running contest each July. The Iowa State Fair is an 11-day celebration of the state’s heritage with carnival rides, live shows and performances as well as food from over 90 vendors. Art enthusiasts can attend the annual Des Moines Arts Festival in June, which exhibits artwork from almost 200 local and international artists. Additional highlighted events include the World Food and Music Festival and the 80/35 Music Festival.
Residents can take the Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART) to access the city of Des Moines. Medical centers such as MercyOne Medical Center at West Des Moines and UnityPoint Health - Methodist West Hospital are right by the neighborhood. For travels outside the state, Interstate 80 and Interstate 35 are close by for commuting into Chicago and Minneapolis, respectively. The Des Moines International Airport is about 12 miles away by Fort Des Moines.
Property Mix - Square Feet
Clive Has More Owners
Rental Home Trends
Number of Homes for Rent
9
Median Rent
$2,850
Median Single Family Home Rent
$2,345
Median 4 Bedroom Single Family Home Rent
$2,345
Median Townhouse Rent
$3,000
Median Condo Rent
$2,400
Median 1 Bedroom Condo Rent
$875
Demographics
Total Population
20,627
Median Age
40
Population Density
33 ppl/acre
Population under 18
27.1%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
17.4%
On par with the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$115,510
Significantly above the national average
$79,597
Average Household Income
$139,869
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
95.9%
College Graduates
59.9%
Significantly above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
22.6%
% Population in Labor Force
79.8%
Above the national average
64.9%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
36''
Average Winter Low Temperature
14°F
Average Summer High Temperature
85°F
Annual Snowfall
35''
Area Factors
Fairly friendly
Bike Score®®
50/ 100
Somewhat friendly
Walk Score®®
30/ 100
Not friendly
Transit Score®®
0/ 100
Source: Local Logic
Sources: Local Logic
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
