$228,929Average Value$172Average Price per Sq Ft48Homes 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.
1/2
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
1/3
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
1/3
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
1/3
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.
1/2
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.
1/3
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
Are you familiar with the Drake neighborhood?
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 53 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Drake, Des Moines over the last 12 months is $198,000, down 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Historic Charm Meets Modern Reliability just south of Drake at the corner of 24th St & Cottage Grove Ave.! The location is truly unbeatable for those who love the Des Moines lifestyle; you are directly across from the scenic Drake Park and a short stroll from local favorites like Gateway Market, Smokey Row Coffee and Drake Diner. Step into this move-in ready, captivating, historic 2-story home
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
Charming bungalow full of character and thoughtfully updated throughout, located in an established Des Moines neighborhood with convenient access to parks, shopping, dining, and downtown amenities. This 2-bedroom, 1-bath home offers a warm and inviting layout featuring spacious living and dining areas with beautiful hardwood floors, abundant natural light, and classic archways that add timeless
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
$2975/mo rent on this classic two-story 4plex multifamily. Inside, you'll find 4 fully independent units, each with its own separate electric meters turnkey rental appeal to investors or owner-occupied househacker. New gutters and roof in the last few years! Two units feature 1 bedroom and 1 bath with updated kitchens and gleaming hardwood floors that give each space a warm, inviting feel. The
Looking for a cash-flowing rental with zero lease-up risk? This fully remodeled 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home in DesMoines' desirable Northwest submarket is ready to perform from day one. Completely renovated inside in 2023, this Colonial-style home combines classic 1896 character arched detailing, solidmasonry foundation, and durable metal siding with modern, move-in-ready finishes
Discover an incredible opportunity to own a beautifully remodeled home in Des Moines! This move-in-ready property features 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, plus 2 non-conforming bedrooms, providing flexible space for guests, a home office, workout room, or hobby area. The home underwent a complete remodel in 2024, including a new central air conditioning system, new water heater, and new sump pump,
Don't miss this outstanding income-producing investment opportunity featuring 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a separatelot, and exceptional parking amenities. This well-maintained property is tenant occupied with a lease in place throughJuly 2027, generating $2,500 per month in rental income, making it an ideal turnkey addition to your investmentportfolio. The home underwent a complete
Step inside this charming 1.5 story home. Right away, you're in a prime location just steps from Drake University, Drake Stadium, and all the local shops and restaurants and only minutes from downtown Des Moines. Inside, you have over 1,300 square feet with 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a ton of character throughout. The formal dining space flows nicely from the living room right into a cozy
INCOME OPPORTUNITY! This home has an additional 399 sqft studio apartment with its own separate entrance, kitchen, and full bathroom! Perfect for generating rental income to offset your mortgage payment, hosting guests, or creating a private in-law suite. Come and see this charming two-story home offering space, character, and incredible versatility, located just minutes from Beaverdale! This
Well-maintained 2-story home featuring 6 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and a 2-car garage. Rarely do you find a home with 6 bedrooms, making this move-in ready property a standout opportunity with exceptional space for comfortable living, entertaining, or investment potential. Conveniently located near Drake University, downtown Des Moines, shopping, dining, parks, and more. The fenced yard, two
Tucked away on a quiet, tree lined street, this charming home offers the perfect blend of character and convenience. Beautiful hardwood floors, abundant natural light, and a spacious dining room create welcoming spaces throughout the main level. The finished attic provides a generous third bedroom and additional flexibility for guests, a home office, or hobby space. Outside, mature trees,
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.
Limited-Time Pricing Alert!Now is the perfect time to make your move—enjoy newly reduced rental rates* on select homes! Choose what works best for you: apply the promotion to lower your monthly rent* or take it as a one-time upfront credit.Don’t miss your chance to lock in a great price on a place you’ll love—availability won’t last long! Contact our office to inquire about
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 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!!!
Welcome to Lofts on 34th, where modern luxury meets urban living in Drake University neighborhood. Our loft-style apartments feature top-of-the-line amenities such as stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and tiled showers. Enjoy the convenience of in-unit washer/dryer, air conditioning, and a 60" Smart TV for your entertainment needs. With controlled access and surface lot parking
New Rate!Spacious upper-level one-bedroom, one-bath apartment available just one block from Drake University. This bright and roomy apartment offers plenty of living space, a large walk-in closet, and a comfortable layout perfect for students or professionals. Rent includes heat (electric), electric, water, lawn care, snow removal for sidewalks only. One off-street parking space included
Newly remodeled 3 bedroom apartment for rent!This unit is on the ground level. Secured entrance and spacious living. Just blocks away from Drake University and just a few minutes for I-235 access. Blocks from many restaurants and entertainment, making this site incredibly walkable. There are plenty of off-street parking spaces for tenants. Brand new LVP floors !!Dishwasher and
Brand New 1 & 2 Bedroom Rowhomes Across from Drake University!Welcome to Forest Ave Rowhomes! Take a look at these stunning 2025 new construction rowhome-style apartments located directly across the street from Drake University! This property puts you just steps from Drake's campus and Helmick Commons, the University Ave business district, Drake Diner, Fleur Cinema & Café, and a Hy-Vee
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.
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,
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.
