$218,202Average Value$158Average Price per Sq Ft37Homes 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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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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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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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.
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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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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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
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Cody Greenfield,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Parks in this Area
Prospect Park
Witmer Park
Bike Trails
Fishing
Picnic Area
McCollum-Waveland Tennis Complex
Picnic Area
Tennis
Pickleball
Good Park
Chamberlain Park
Picnic Area
Playground
Drake Park
Basketball
Grills
Picnic Area
Transit
Airport
Des Moines International
14 min drive
Bus
University Ave & 29th St (Far-Side), Dsm
Bus
Clark St & 32nd St, Dsm
Bus
Mlk Jr Pkwy & Francis Ave, Dsm
Bus
30th St & Clark St, Dsm
Bus
31st St & Brattleboro Ave, Dsm
Bus
University Ave & 31st St (Far-Side), Dsm
Bus
University Ave & 23rd St, Dsm
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Drake
US
Homicide
5
4
Sexual Assault
6
4
Assault with Weapon
6
4
Robbery
6
4
Burglary
6
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
6
4
Larceny
5
4
Crime Score
6
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Drake Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Drake, Des Moines sell after 44 days on the market compared to the national average of 49 days. The median sale price for homes in Drake, Des Moines over the last 12 months is $209,750, up 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
This 2-bedroom, 1-bath home with vinyl siding and composite windows sits on a large lot, offering both immediate rental income potential and long-term upside. The expansive backyard could support future additions, outdoor amenities, or simply boost tenant appeal for renters looking for extra space. Located in a strong rental corridor just minutes from downtown, this property is ideal for
Great investment opportunity in a prime location! This 2-bed, 1-bath home offers 1,375 sq ft of living space on a spacious 9,408 sq ft lot. Located across from a park, it offers peaceful surroundings boasting 2 giant Magnolia trees and a pretty yard with easy access to Drake and downtown Des Moines. Perfect for a rental or flip, this property has room to grow with a huge 2-car garage with shop
This classic bungalow with a twist delivers charm, space, and rental-ready perks. Featuring 2 bedrooms and 1 full bath. Original hardwood floors run throughout the main level, where you'll find a generously sized family and dining room, main-level laundry, and a well-laid-out kitchen. The backyard is fully fenced and features a covered deck and balcony. This property comes with a rental
Experience contemporary living at its finest at Canary Lofts, ideally situated near Drake University. Our apartments in Des Moines, IA feature modern designs, elegant finishes, and upscale amenities that cater to your lifestyle. Choose from one of our studios, one, or two-bedroom layouts, each thoughtfully crafted with 9-foot ceilings, in-unit washers and dryers, key fob access for enhanced
Welcome to The Drake, located in the heart of Des Moines, IA. Our newly remodeled units offer spacious interiors, perfect for those seeking a comfortable and modern living space. With easy interstate access, commuting has never been easier. The Drake is also conveniently located near Drake University, making it an ideal choice for students and faculty. Our pet-friendly community welcomes your
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!!!
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Cody Greenfield,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Average Home Value
Source: Public Records
Property Mix - Square Feet
This Neighborhood Has More Renters
Demographics
Total Population
13,552
Median Age
31
Population Density
15 ppl/acre
Population under 18
25.5%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
10%
Below the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$46,769
Significantly below the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$60,047
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
86.4%
On par with the national average
89.1%
College Graduates
32.9%
Advanced Degrees
11.6%
% Population in Labor Force
72.3%
Above the national average
65.1%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
36''
Average Winter Low Temperature
14°F
Average Summer High Temperature
85°F
Annual Snowfall
35''
Area Factors
Somewhat Bikeable
Bike Score®
49/ 100
Very Walkable
Walk Score®
71/ 100
Some Transit
Transit Score®
38/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
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.
