Despite its name, Urbandale is actually quite suburban, favoring peaceful residential streets over busy city sidewalks. Local parks and annual events add to the area’s feeling of being a small community. Located at the intersection of two major interstates, Urbandale is in a prime location, just around 15 miles from Downtown Des Moines. You can find a range of housing here, from large homes in newly developed subdivisions to established neighborhoods with older houses.
Urbandale residents take pride in their homes and their community.
Urbandale is home to all manner of corporate job opportunities.
Urbandale is home to many top tier employers, and is full of great job opportunities.
Urbandale takes great pride in its historical roots and its long record of service.
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Styles from cozy bungalows to spacious properties
Deb Miller is a Realtor with Iowa Realty who lives in Urbandale. She says, “If you’re looking to move up from your two-bedroom, one-bath bungalow to a bigger home that you can entertain or raise a family in, there are a lot of homes like that in the area.” Ranch and split-level houses are common in the neighborhood, as well as new three-bedroom townhouse communities. Some contemporary, colonial and ranch-style properties are custom-built.
"The older, more established section on the east side is made up of homes from the 50s and 60s," says Derek Zarn, Urbandale's director of marketing and communications for the City of Urbandale. "Streets are lined with tall, lush trees and houses have smaller lots." Newer developments tend to be more open with wide, walkable streets.
Many Urbandale residents have turned their backyards into private getaways.
Larger modern homes can be found in the western sprawl of Urbandale.
On Urbandale's west side, developments of impressive new Traditional homes are springing up.
Urbandale's original core largely consists of midcentury ranch and bilevel homes.
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Housing prices in Urbandale
“I feel like Urbandale has houses in every price range,” Miller says. “Some of the older areas have really affordable first-time homebuyer-type of smaller homes, then [prices go] all the way up to multi-million dollar homes that are maybe newer construction in newer neighborhoods.” The median single-family sale price in Urbandale is in the high $300,000s, while the median townhouse sale price is in the high $200,000s. The neighborhood’s price is comparable to nearby Grimes, but prices are higher in Johnston and Clive, where the median single-family price is in the mid $400,000.
Multiple school districts serving the area
The City of Urbandale is divided into multiple school districts, including:
Urbandale Community School District
Des Moines School District
Dallas Center–Grimes Community School District
Waukee School District
Johnston School District and West Des Moines School District
Iowa’s Open Enrollment program offers flexibility in choosing the district that is right for them. Preschoolers through eighth graders can attend St. Pius X Catholic School, while Des Moines Christian School goes up to 12th grade. Dowling Catholic High School is in West Des Moines. Urbandale is also close to colleges in the Des Moines area, such as Drake University and Des Moines University.
Walnut Hills Elementary School is located off 156th Street.
Olmstead Elementary School is one of several elementary schools serving Urbandale.
Welcome to Urbandale Middle School.
Urbandale High School is known for its excellent academics, clubs, and athletics.
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Transportation and commuting on the “Urban Loop”
Urbandale is located at the intersection of Interstates 35 and 80, within what locals call the "Urban Loop," which leads to Downtown Des Moines. “We have easy access to really all parts of the metro area,” Miller says. Most Des Moinesians choose to get around by car because the city has so little traffic. Those wanting to use public transit will find Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority bus stops along Douglas Avenue and Meredith Drive. Biking is another way to navigate the city. “You can hop on a bike trail in Urbandale, and you can go downtown or [to the] lake,” Miller says.
Local amenities and things to do
“Urbandale is known to have a lot of green space, a lot of really nice parks and a lot of bike trails,” Miller says. You can stroll among public art along the nature trails at Charles Gabus Memorial Tree Park and Gardens or check out the adrenaline-inducing skateboarding section at Walker Johnston Park, which hosts Urbandale's youth sports leagues and adult pickleball tournaments throughout the year. Visitors can learn about the past 300 years of Iowa’s agricultural history at Living History Farms, a 500-acre interactive outdoor museum.
The city becomes a winter wonderland during the holidays, with glowing trees, gingerbread houses and an ice-skating rink at Charles Gabus Memorial Tree Park. Miracle on 86th Street is the biggest winter holiday celebration in the city and the site for several seasonal events throughout the year. In the spring, bikers hop onto Urbandale’s trail system with the Urbandale mayor during the Mayor’s Bike Ride. “They have a widely known Fourth of July festival in the neighborhood,” Miller says. “It’s pretty popular.”
The expanse of Walker Johnston Park is a central gathering spot for Urbandale residents.
The gardens of Charles Gabus Memorial Tree Park & Garden offer a green side of Urbandale.
Many miles of trails meander through the beautiful neighborhoods of Urbandale.
Urbandale boasts an impressive modern skate park at Walker Johnston park.
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The Urbandale Job Market
Miller says insurance companies are a major employer in the area. Marsh & McLennan Companies is the largest employer in the city, employing around 1,000 people. Urbandale Community School District is the second largest employer in Urbandale. "What was once a small community has grown into a large suburb," says Cary Claiborne, Broker Associate with Iowa Realty Ankeny and a Des Moines area resident since 1978. "In fact, the whole Iowa Metro area is poised for great growth."
Written By
Joyelle Ronan
Photography Contributed By
Drew Davis
Video By
Tyler Hall
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Kris Mehmen,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Urbandale, IA sell after 61 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Urbandale, IA over the last 12 months is $350,000, up 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to this two-story townhouse in the desirable Cobblestone community, offering a perfect blend of comfort and low-maintenance living. With brand new siding and roof, this home is move-in ready and packed with features, including a huge back deck overlooking a private wooded backdrop. Inside, the main level boasts beautiful hardwood floors, a cozy wood-burning fireplace, and an open layout.
Convenience, charm, and updates. This home has it all in a prime Urbandale location. Pull up to the inviting front porch of this classic, well-kept 3-bedroom home with an ample driveway and attached, two-stall garage. Step inside to a massive, open-concept great room with a remodeled kitchen that includes a huge island, stainless appliances, and custom, tiled backsplash. Flow directly into the
Experience refined living in the “Bordeaux Plan” by Anko Signature Homes, perfectly situated on a .44-acre lot within a prestigious Urbandale cul-de-sac. This 5 bed, 3bath residence blends timeless French farmhouse charm with modern European elegance, highlighted by exquisite, thoughtfully curated finishes (for a full list of finishes, please contact the listing agent). Located in "Urban Hills",
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
Welcome to 17339 Brookview Dr in Urbandale, a stunning new construction home by Krov Construction that perfectly blends modern style with everyday functionality. Step through the arched entryway and be greeted by beautiful wood-beamed ceilings, warm natural light, and an open floor plan designed for today's lifestyle. The spacious kitchen is a showpiece, featuring quartz countertops, a custom
Welcome home to this spacious and well-maintained 4-bedroom, 3-bath two-story in the heart of Urbandale! Featuring over 2,661 total square feet of finished living space, this home offers a flexible layout perfect for everyday living and entertaining. Enjoy the bright and inviting sunroom addition, providing extra space to relax year-round. The fenced backyard offers privacy and room to play,
Well-maintained mid-century ranch featuring spacious rooms and abundant natural light. The open-concept living/dining/kitchen great room. highlighted by a floor-to-ceiling brick fireplace with insert. The kitchen is equipped with newer Samsung stainless steel refrigerator and LG stove. Newer LVP flooring throughout the main level. Both bedrooms are generously sized with custom double closets and
Destiny Homes proudly presents the Briarwood, on a daylight lot, a stunning home offering 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and over 2,000 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space. The main floor greets you with an inviting open layout, perfect for modern living. A private study off the entry provides a quiet retreat for work or relaxation. The heart of the home is the bright and airy great room,
Welcome to this beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 3-bath, two-story home in desirable Urbandale! Featuring a spacious layout with both formal living and dining rooms, this home is ideal for entertaining. The updated kitchen offers quartz countertops, an eat-in area, and a view into the cozy family room with a wood-burning fireplace. Enjoy plenty of natural light and comfortable living space
Warm, inviting, and immaculately maintained ranch in Urbandale. Waukee school district. Like new with thoughtful upgrades throughout. Part of the highly coveted Destiny Homes Smart Series line. A sensible flow greets you with a crisp kitchen that features a large island, subway backsplash, and plenty of pantry room. The open concept living space features a stunning customized stone fireplace
Beautiful walkout ranch located in a family oriented neighborhood! Custom built home full of many features and upgrades including a stunning kitchen with SS Electrolux refrigerator and freezer, beverage center, wine cooler, Frigidaire gas cooktop, dishwasher, drawer microwave, walk-in pantry, large center isle with prep sink and bar with pendant lighting. Quartz and granite counter tops
Opportunity to secure an excellent corner lot in the 1st Addition of Bentley Ridge, NW Urbandale's newest upscale subdivision. Bring your own builder or use Heartland Custom Homes of IA to build your dream home. Walking distance to Radiant Elementary school, a new city park, and in Waukee School District.
Element Urbandale offers 1- & 2-bedroom apartments for rent in Urbandale, IA. Our pet-friendly apartment community is in an ideal location 15 minutes from Des Moines with easy access to I-35, I-80, and the DART Bus System, as well as shopping, dining, entertainment, the Des Moines International Airport, and top employers including Principal Financial Group, Mercy One Des Moines Medical Center,
View a SPACIOUS NEWLY remodeled apartments!Our property is centrally located in Des Moines. LOCATED on 86th St. in Urbandale (on 86th St. Between Douglas & Hickman) Set on 12 beautifully landscaped acres you"ll love all the trees & wildlife. LIVE IN PEACE WITH NATURE!
Brixin Townhomes at Magnolia Heights offers a fresh approach to rental living with brand-new three- and four-bedroom townhomes in Urbandale, IA. Each residence features a multi-level layout with open concept living, white shaker-style cabinetry, quartz countertops, kitchen islands, stainless-steel appliances, wood-style flooring, high-speed internet, and in-home laundry. Private patios, generous
Elm Village Apartments in Urbandale, IA, offers residents a comfortable and convenient living experience. Each of our spacious apartments features a fully equipped, open kitchen, ideal for both everyday meal preparation and entertaining guests. The seamless flow between the kitchen and living areas creates a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for hosting dinner parties or enjoying a quiet night in.
***Up to $1000 Free Rent*** Call for additional details.***Limited Time Offer***Schedule a tour today on our website!Pets WelcomeComplimentary Internet Access and Heat Paid!Welcome to Urban Green Apartments conveniently located in Urbandale, Iowa offering one and two bedroom apartment homes for rent. Budget better with Heat/Gas AND Complimentary Internet
Less than half a mile away from Merle Hay Mall and nestled in growing Urbandale, you will find the Plaza Manor Apartments. These spectacular, affordable apartments in Urbandale are cable ready and have their own laundry facility on site. There are even additional free storage areas! Easy access to I-35, various schools, restaurants and grocery stores make this apartment complex a must see. Stop
Discover pet-friendly, two-bedroom apartments at Bexley Urbandale, designed with your lifestyle in mind. Enjoy community amenities that make staying active and social easy: a sparkling outdoor pool, fully-equipped fitness center, playground, basketball and pickleball courts, and a bark park.Inside your spacious apartment, you’ll find a fully equipped kitchen, generous closet space, and a
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.
Welcome to North Park Apartments, your new home in the heart of Johnston, IA. Our apartments offer a full appliance package, ensuring you have everything you need for comfortable living. Each unit is tastefully updated, featuring spacious floorplans that include walk-in closets for ample storage. For your convenience, each apartment is equipped with an in-unit washer and dryer, making laundry day
Nice apartments at an affordable price!Completely remodeled building and unitsAll units at the property come with all utilities included!On Site LaundryFree Parking
Living in Urbandale means having access to all of the best events downtown Des Moines and surrounding suburbs have to offer, including the annual Urbandale celebration! With connections to bike trails, interstates, and all of the extra amenities, it will be easy to call these apartments home. Combine quality and affordability when you choose Bristol Ridge. Call today to schedule a tour, we'd love
$1000 Rent Credit...Call for details. Restrictions apply. We currently have Studio and One Bedrooms Available.**The McCoy also offers Furnished Studio available with short term lease option. Call for pricing and details**For Leasing Information Call Today or complete Contact Us on our website to be contacted via text or email. Our apartment community offers an array of
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