How Indianola blends arts, nature and small‑town living
South of Des Moines, Indianola is a suburb that feels like a small town with a historic college, a town square with local businesses and several parks. While some people choose to live here because it's close enough to commute to Downtown Des Moines, Indianola has its own personality. The city supports the arts, as it’s home to the Des Moines Metro Opera and its American summer opera festival. Other things to do include walking and biking trails, and an annual hot-air balloon festival.
The downtown square a is centered around a brand-new courthouse and justice center.
Indianola is proud to be the home of Simpson College and all of it's students and staff.
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What buyers can expect to pay for homes in Indianola
Older homes are near downtown, and there are newer homes built from the 1970s to the mid-2020s available. "So basically, there is something in the way of housing for everyone," says Barb McMurry , managing broker of Iowa Realty, who sells in the area. New construction and traditional brick homes are on the southwest side of town, while more established ranch-style and split-level homes are in the center of town. Indianola has a median single-family home sale price in the low $300,000s, which is higher than Des Moines’ median in the low $200,000s. Some townhouse options range from the low $70,000s to the mid-$400,000s.
Ranch-style homes line the cozy streets.
Newer homes are often matched with larger yards to match the homes.
New housing developments feature sleek Modern houses in a variety of styles.
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Why many residents appreciate Indianola’s small‑town charm
“People are drawn to Indianola who want the close proximity to the Des Moines metro, but prefer the small town charm of this quieter community,” McMurry says. “[It’s] a welcoming community with a good school system, picture-perfect town square, an abundance of city parks, a bike trail that connects to Carlisle and the historic Simpson College.” The town square has a lot of local shops, restaurants and businesses. “I’ve lived in Indianola for over 30 years now. It’s a great community. A great place to live and grow up,” says Terry Pauling, broker and owner of iTOWN Real Estate on West Salem Avenue.
What families should know about schools and programs in Indianola
Indianola Community School District has four elementary schools, a middle school and a high school. “The community high school athletic, musical and theatrical events are community supported,” McMurry says. Indianola High School students can take college courses through Des Moines Area Community College while still earning their high school diploma. Iowa law allows families to enroll their children in other school districts within the state if there is space available. Simpson College is a private, four-year Methodist college. It was established in 1860 and currently enrolls around 1,200 students.
Indianola High School's football field has plenty of space to fit all the football fans.
Indianola Middle School has recently gone through many renovations to improve the facilities.
Indianola High School has a wide open campus to allow all students to thrive.
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Parks, pools and yearly events create a lively community
The city has several parks with a variety of amenities, including:
Memorial Park and Amphitheater has playgrounds, a live performance amphitheater and a skatepark.
Buxton Park is well-known for its arboretum, public art and ornamental fountain.
Pickard Park is the one of the city’s largest park with baseball and softball fields hosting weekend tournaments throughout the summer.
Swimmers can head to the Indianola Veterans Memorial Aquatic Center, which has a waterslide and splash pool, and golfers have a public and a private course to choose from.
One of the biggest attractions in Indianola is The National Balloon Classic. “It’s a spectator event. Weather permitting, spectators can watch the hot-air balloons launch or come into the field from out in the country,” Pauling says. “We get people from all over, and I’ve seen cars from nearly every state during the Classic. There’s probably, on average, between 8,000 and 12,000 people daily.” Other Indianola events include the Home for the Holidays Lighted Parade and the county fair.
Buxton Park has many different pathways for residents to stroll on.
Memorial Park has a waterpark making it very popular among families.
McCord Park features two playgrounds to fit many families.
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Travel times and main routes for reaching Des Moines
“We’re basically 10-15 miles south of the Des Moines metro area, and I think about 60% of folks here commute into Des Moines,” Pauling says. The drive to Downtown Des Moines is about 20 miles. “It takes less time to drive up from Indianola than it takes to travel from West Des Moines into downtown,” Pauling says. “We’re also 20 min to the airport, 30 minutes to large employers in West Des Moines, and 25 minutes to downtown.” Most commuters take U.S. Highway 69 to reach major destinations, including the Des Moines International Airport.
Written By
Joyelle Ronan
Photography Contributed By
Drew Davis
Video By
Robert Edmonds
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Ryan Hoover,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Indianola, IA sell after 66 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Indianola, IA over the last 12 months is $308,950, up 13% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Immaculate 3BR/3BA walkout ranch condo on the quiet east side. Highlights include an updated kitchen with a large island and walk-in pantry, a main-floor laundry, and a peaceful deck with a seasonal shade cover. The versatile lower level features a family room, a third bedroom, bath, craft room, and walkout access. Meticulously maintained with a full list of recent updates available—luxury and
Charming and move-in ready, this 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home in Indianola, Iowa offers the perfect blend of character, comfort, and location. Situated in a desirable neighborhood, this well-maintained home features beautiful hardwood floors, timeless architectural details, and an inviting layout filled with natural light. The spacious living area flows easily into the dining space, making it ideal
Enjoy easy, low-maintenance living in this inviting upper-level condominium featuring 2 bedrooms and 2 full baths. The open layout connects the kitchen and living room. Step out onto the private balcony to enjoy fresh air and natural light. The spacious primary bedroom includes its own full bath, while the second bedroom is conveniently located near an additional full bath, ideal for guests or a
Peoples Company is pleased to present this 9,185 sq ft commercial building situated on 2.15 acres M/L located just southeast of Indianola, Iowa. The property is zoned Commercial and sits only 0.2 miles off County Highway S23, offering convenient access and strong visibility. This building needs work, but with its size, layout, and price point, it represents a rare, affordable opportunity for an
Surrounded by woods and wildlife, this 3 bed 2 bath home provides comfortable living space with a detached garage for extra storage. Split bedroom layout, with the 2nd and 3rd bedrooms with full bath off the dining room, and the primary bedroom and bath are off the living room and galley kitchen. Also check out the primary's separate jacuzzi tub and shower! All appliances included. Wraparound
Combining the feel of rural living with the quick access to all that Indianola has to offer, you will not find a better piece of ground to build. This sprawling property - over 6.5 acres - has a little bit of everything and can accommodate nearly any type of home. The building site is set back from the road offering expansive views and reduced road noise. It is ideally situated on the west edge
Welcome home, your front porch is a great place to enjoy your morning coffee or favorite book! This 4 bedroom, 2 bath split level home has a spacious living room and kitchen that walks out to a 14 x 20 three season room with heat. The family room has a fireplace and walkout to patio so you can revel in the private back yard. The lowest level has an additional finished room with another walkout
You’ll fall in love with this 4 bedroom home featuring several contemporary updates throughout! Light and airy colors paired with touches of charm, like the eye-catching built-ins in the kitchen, give the home character you don’t typically find. The kitchen will catch your attention with the professionally painted cream cabinets and brushed brass hardware. The laundry and mudroom area are also on
Welcome home! This brick house is a must-see and ready for your personal touch. The main level features two large bedrooms, one full bathroom, a spacious kitchen with a dining area and a large living room with original hardwood flooring throughout. Additionally, the property includes a two-car attached garage, extra storage sheds and a full unfinished basement equipped with a half bath (plumbing
Charming 1.5-story home in the heart of Indianola featuring 3 bedrooms, a spacious living room, and a dedicated dining area perfect for both everyday living and entertaining. Ideally located near local amenities, shopping, and dining, this home offers both convenience and comfort. The functional layout provides inviting living spaces with plenty of natural light throughout. A large detached 2-car
Welcome to a home that’s been loved, cared for, and built to last. This solid split foyer stands out right away with its rare 4-bedroom layout! Inside, you’ll find real oak hardwood flooring that brings warmth and character, along with a home that has been meticulously maintained by the same owner for many years, true pride of ownership is evident throughout. The kitchen features updated oak
I'm pleased to market this 2.2-acre building site on Kennedy Street, just east of Indianola, Iowa and only a half mile off of Highway S23 pavement. This property offers incredible views in every direction of the rural Iowa countryside, state-owned recreational land, agricultural fields, and a wide variety of wildlife. The topography of this tract is excellent and conducive for daylight, flat, and
Active Adult Senior Living in Indianola. Situated in the beautiful town of Indianola, Iowa, this Connect55+ location offers more than just independent senior living apartments. Come as Strangers, Live as Friends® at this welcoming community with fun social activities, exciting classes, engaging wellness programs, and so much more! Connect55+ Indianola combines first-class amenities and
Welcome to your dream rental townhome! This stunning, brand-new construction boasts a generous 1,600 square feet of modern living space, featuring zero entry for easy accessibility. Enjoy soaring 9-foot ceilings and luxurious LVP flooring throughout, complemented by elegant quartz countertops and sleek stainless steel appliances in the kitchen. The separate laundry room comes complete with a
Experience the ideal balance at Linden West in Indianola. Enjoy tranquil, country-like living with effortless access to city conveniences. Perfectly situated, you'll find the charm of small-town life coupled with the amenities of Des Moines and its western suburbs. Our meticulously maintained apartments offer modern updates, including new LVP flooring, private decks, and energy-efficient Pella
Did you know you could lease a ranch style townhome for about the same cost as renting an apartment? The conveniences of an apartment with the enjoyment of your own front door, yard and attached garage. Upgrade your apartment experience to townhome living with Kading!We offer affordable living with desired amenities such as washer/dryer hook-ups, cable ready units, air conditioning,
FOR AVAILABILITY DATES PLEASE CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE - DSMRENTAL.COMRemodeling the flooring in all units, as well as access to the municipal internet!Please also visit our website for a 3D tour link.These bright spacious condos offer all the comforts you need at home, as well as quick access to Indianola’s shopping, restaurants, and numerous recreational attractions. Nestled on the
Discover the comfort and convenience of Easton Village in Indianola. These spacious and affordable apartments offer everything you need to feel right at home. Enjoy a welcoming community and a great location, all at a value that fits your lifestyle.
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Welcome to Deer Run, a charming apartment community in the heart of Indianola! With spacious floor plans and traditional layouts, Deer Run offers the perfect combination of comfort and affordability. Whether you're looking for your first home or a cozy place to settle into, our community provides a welcoming environment in a great location. If you're seeking an affordable living space in a
Foxwood Apartments offers beautiful floor plans designed to make you feel right at home. Nestled in a peaceful residential area in Indianola, our community combines comfort and convenience for a truly welcoming living experience. With thoughtfully designed interiors, spacious layouts, and a warm neighborhood vibe, Foxwood Apartments is the perfect place to unwind and connect. Discover a home
Property Id: 1541604Welcome to your dream rental townhome! This stunning, brand-new construction boasts a generous 1,600 square feet of modern living space, featuring zero entry for easy accessibility. Enjoy soaring 9-foot ceilings and luxurious LVP flooring throughout, complemented by elegant quartz countertops and sleek stainless steel appliances in the kitchen. The separate laundry
2011 E 1st Ave, Indianola, IA 50125— This delightful rental home features a generous layout, offering three inviting bedrooms, two well-appointed bathrooms, and a spacious 1,636 square feet of living bliss. Revel in the charm of a finished basement, fresh carpets, attached double garage, and a newly crafted deck! Tranquil neighborhood, your moments from local parks, esteemed schools, and the
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