$222,893Average Value$164Average Price per Sq Ft38Homes For Sale
Drake college town and community
One of Des Moines' oldest neighborhoods, Drake is a suburb outside of downtown known for its close community and private university. “Drake is an eclectic melting pot. It has everything: Drake University, a business district and lots of historic architecture,” says Alexis Johnson, a local Realtor for over 10 years, currently with Iowa Realty Beaverdale. Drake University is the neighborhood’s main hub, serving as an employer, an educational and cultural center and a community resource. There are a few core spots throughout the campus that are focal points of Drake. The Helmick Commons is both a student quad and green area in the middle of campus that serves as a local gathering space. Drake Stadium hosts local high school games as well as Drake Relays, a national track and field event. Drake is a lively neighborhood shared by families, students and faculty, and although most amenities can be found within a couple of blocks, Downtown Des Moines is also only a bike ride away.
The Drake neighborhood is just minutes from Downtown Des Moines.
Drake University is the namesake of the neighborhood.
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Mom-and-pop shops in Drake
A Hy-Vee is available for groceries and a pharmacy within 1 mile of most residential areas. For other essentials, Walmart Supercenter sits about 3 miles east in Windsor Heights along with a Sam’s Club and Aldi. The Drake business district is composed of many small businesses. “It’s a good neighborhood for those looking for a walkable area with unique local businesses to support,” Johnson says. One of the most well-known restaurants is Drake Diner, which has been serving comfort food since 1987 in a retro diner atmosphere. University Library Café is a local mainstay for craft beer, burgers and nachos. Peggy’s Tavern, a college hangout spot, mixes food with entertainment, and Lefty’s Live Music offers live performances and events, such as an open mic comedy night. Locally owned Black Cat Ice Cream, with its patio seating and award-winning artisanal ice cream, serves desserts and supports the animal community. Cat adoption events and a photo Wall of Fame make this a must-see spot for feline aficionados with a sweet tooth.
Black Cat Ice Cream
Locals walking along University Ave.
Peggy's
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Eating and exercising events in Drake
The Drake Relays, held at Drake Stadium, is one of the top outdoor track and field events in the country. Before the competition, student organizations have a designated square to paint along Carpenter Avenue, also known at the Painted Street. Paintings feature unique interpretations of the event’s theme that given year. The annual Des Moines Greek Food Fair Festival also takes place in the neighborhood, serving authentic dishes, such as gyros and dolmades.
Housing in Drake caters to many different interests
The neighborhood has a variety of Foursquares, Craftsman homes and bungalows. With the high concentration of students in the area, apartment buildings and rental units are also prevalent. Two-to-three-bedroom homes with driveways often sell for $100,000 to $250,000. Four-bedroom homes tend to climb up to $400,000 and often have detached garages. For those looking to rent one- or two-bedroom condos and apartments, monthly rent can start around $600, with three-to-four-bedrooms going up to about $1,500. Most homes have front and back lawns, and bur oaks shade the sidewalks that line most streets, creating a walkable environment.
Drake Neighborhood Homes
Drake Neighborhood Homes
Drake Neighborhood Homes
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Outdoor activities near Drake
Drake Park is one of the closest local parks and features a playground, water area, basketball court and a rentable shelter. Residents can visit Witmer Park, which features a playground within walking distance for most Drake residents. Drake University’s campus is also ideal for adults who would like to relax with a book at the green space of Helmick Commons or take an artistic stroll along the Painted Street.
Drake Park Playground
Drake Park Tennis Court
Drake Park
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Getting around Drake
Residents can walk within the Drake area, as sidewalks are common. Locals can either drive, bike or take the Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART) public bus service about 3 miles to Downtown Des Moines. “It’s so close to the city, you can easily just ride a bike to concerts, restaurants or whatever activity is going on over there,” Johnson says. For air travel, Des Moines International Airports is about 5 miles south via Fleur Drive.
Locals walking along University Ave.
Bus stops along University Avenue can connect to anywhere in Des Moines.
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Grade school education from Perkins to Roosevelt
Students can attend schools in the Des Moines Independent Community School District, which features over 50 schools. Depending on home addresses, Drake families send their children through many different schools in the district. Primary students could attend Perkins Elementary, which scores a B-minus on Niche, then head to Callanan Middle, which earns a C-minus. Roosevelt High scores a B and is the No. 2 standout high school in Iowa for 2024 according to Niche. Roosevelt has one of the highest athletic participation rates in the area and sends the most students to Ivy Leagues in the state.
Perkins Elementary serves Drake students is grades K-5.
Callanan Middle School serves the intermediate students of the Drake neighborhood.
The Roosevelt High School main entrance emanates with the history that flows through its halls.
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Employment opportunities in Drake
With Drake University at the center of the area, many residents work in education at the university or within local public schools. Beyond education, there are plenty of opportunities in the service, food and retail industries in the Drake community.
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
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to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Drake
US
Homicide
6
4
Sexual Assault
5
4
Assault with Weapon
5
4
Robbery
5
4
Burglary
5
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
5
4
Larceny
5
4
Crime Score
5
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Drake Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Drake, Des Moines sell after 50 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Drake, Des Moines over the last 12 months is $199,000, down 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Step into this practically new 3-bedroom, 2-bath home where every detail has been redone with care. The transformation begins with the exterior — fresh siding, a welcoming front porch, and a shady yard that offers space to relax or add a future garage. Inside, the home feels bright and open with new drywall, lighting, trim, and paint throughout. The original hardwood floors add warmth and
Charming Condo in excellent location near Drake University. Within walking distance to restaurants, bars, groceries and entertainment. Original hardwood floors throughout and a remodeled bathroom mix beautifully with the original built-ins, floor tile, archways and glass knobs to create a cozy living space. Two bedrooms, lots of storage space and in-unit laundry hook-ups make this the best way to
Sitting on an oversized lot with fresh snow framing its clean exterior, this home blends the charm of its original era with the practical updates. Step inside to sun-filled rooms lined with new flooring mixed with beautifully preserved original hardwood, giving the home that rare blend of character and function. Fresh paint throughout brightens each space, and large windows in nearly every room
$2636 per month Gross rent. Currently 2 long term leases and 1 furnished short term rental. This is a prime rental property in a sought-after Des Moines neighborhood just west of the Drake University Campus. The property comes with a renewed rental license. A new roof was installed in 2021, providing peace of mind for years to come. Unit 1 and Unit 2 have had updates in the past 2 years. This
Looking for a smart investment in a neighborhood that keeps getting better? This two-story home has been converted into a duplex in the heart of the growing Drake University area—offering flexibility whether you’re an owner-occupant or a long-term investor. Live in one unit and let the other help offset your mortgage, or keep both units rented and enjoy steady cash flow from day one. Both units
Spacious two-story home offering plenty of room to spread out. The main level features a generous kitchen with appliances included, a formal dining room, an oversized living room with fireplace, and convenient first-floor laundry. Upstairs you’ll find three bedrooms with the potential for a fourth, along with hardwood floors and new carpet throughout. Outside, enjoy a fully fenced backyard
$3393/mo of rental income and the owner is only paying for the water usage. Great 4 plex with good rental income and current tenants. All other utilizes are paid by the tenants. Great location close to downtown and close to Drake University. Package deal available with 1206 39th st with the right offer.
Nestled in the historic Drake Park neighborhood, this home offers a rare blend of new construction comfort and classic neighborhood charm. A generous front porch sets the tone, opening into a sun-filled main level with a brick-surround fireplace and open sightlines. The kitchen is designed for both cooking and gathering, featuring quartz countertops, tile backsplash, soft-close cabinetry and
Welcome to this charming 1923 Craftsman home filled w/ original character & modern updates. Offering 1,871 sq ft for family & guests. The living room features original oak hardwood floors, wood trim & a wood-burning fireplace w/ built-ins. The formal dining room is perfect for hosting. The kitchen includes stainless steel appliances, granite countertops & a tin backsplash w/ 19th-century charm.
Located just minutes from Drake University, this 4-unit multifamily property presents a prime opportunity for investors looking to add value and build long-term cash flow. With 2,009 square feet of total living space, this property offers four separate apartment units, making it ideal for student housing, long-term rentals, or a mix of both. The strong rental demand in the Drake area provides
Welcome to this two-story home located within walking distance of Drake University and close to a variety of local dining and entertainment options plus quick access to I-235. Offering nearly 1,700 sq ft of living space, this spacious 4-bedroom home provides plenty of room to gather, entertain, or simply relax. Three bedrooms & two full baths are located on the second level. An additional private
Well-located 5-unit multifamily in the Drake area offering a rare mix of stability and immediate upside. Quiet building with a solid history of long-term tenancy and consistent performance. The property features four 1-bedroom units and one efficiency, with current rent levels positioned for strong cash flow: Unit 1: $800 Unit 2: $675 Unit 3: $500 Unit 4: $550 Unit 5: $800 Recent system
Welcome to Canary Lofts in Des Moines, Iowa.Discover contemporary apartment living near Drake University. Canary Lofts offers thoughtfully designed studio, one-, and two-bedroom apartments featuring modern finishes and functional layouts-ideal for students, professionals, and anyone seeking a connected urban lifestyle.Enjoy everyday comforts and upscale amenities including in-unit
Enjoy lower rent and predictable utility costs with our newest move-in special.1-bedroom homes for $695 with $65 flat utilities2-bedroom homes for $825 with $95 flat utilitiesNo surprises, no fluctuating bills — just great value. Lease today before this offer expires.
Welcome to Forest Ave, a 2025 newly built apartment complex located in the heart of Des Moines, IA. This thoughtfully built apartment complex offers a blend of luxury and convenience, with top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances and in-unit washer and dryers. The coded door entry system ensures secure access, while the off-street parking provides added convenience. As a resident,
Welcome to Forest Avenue Village in Des Moines, IA! This apartment offers a private entrance for added privacy and convenience. Inside, you'll find a modern kitchen featuring quartz countertops, a stylish tile backsplash, and a large kitchen island perfect for meal prep and entertaining. With the added convenience of a washer and dryer in unit, you'll have everything you need right at your
Beaverdale Properties includes duplexes and apartment units located in the unique Beaverdale neighborhood in the west side of Des Moines. Quiet, park like settings at each location. Some units feature car ports and some allow pets. Beaverdale is known for its well-built traditional brick homes and tree-lined streets. Beaverdale is home to four Des Moines public elementary schools: Hillis, Monroe,
Welcome to The Grove at Hickman – Where Choice Meets Comfort!Discover The Grove at Hickman in Des Moines, IA, where variety, style, and convenience come together to create an ideal living experience. Our pet-friendly community offers a range of thoughtfully designed apartment options, allowing you to choose the perfect home to match your lifestyle.You’ll enjoy spacious bedrooms,
Welcome to University Village! Located minutes to Drake University at University and 23rd Street. Offering 1 bedroom floor plans that have stainless steel appliances, bike storage, walk-in closets, and a washer and dryer in each home. Call today to view your new home!!!
Discover the Perfect Blend of Historic Charm and Modern Living at Old Main & Drake ApartmentsOld Main Apartments offer a unique living experience where historic charm meets modern amenities. Our spacious and affordable floorplans range from cozy studios to expansive one and two-bedroom units. Each apartment features ample storage, fully equipped modern kitchens, highspeed internet access,
University Place Lofts features awesome spaces right in the heart of the action near Drake! Historic neighborhood. Close to local shops on the street level. Minutes to downtown for work and hot spots. Full-size washers and dryers in your apartment. Modern appliances. Controlled access for safety and privacy. FREE parking, FREE trash. These lofts and row townhomes have to be seen.
1314 22nd St, Des MoinesLocated walking distance to Drake University, this 1 bedroom apartment features many updates! The apartment includes new LVP hardwood flooring and paint throughout, a large living room with big windows, a ceiling fan, a wall AC unit, and has an open concept to the kitchen that includes new cabinet and countertops, and new appliances including a fridge, stove, and
1211 34th St, Des Moines Iowa::Move-in Ready::You cannot find a better kept apartment than this one! Original hardwood floors throughout the apartment. Kitchen is spacious and is adjacent to the formal dining area. The living room has ample space and tons of natural light. 1 parking space included (off-street parking) with rent.No PetsTenant pays all
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.
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