How Waukee’s population boom is shaping development
Waukee's highly rated schools, employment opportunities and expanding amenities are attracting families to the area. It forms the western cusp of the Des Moines Metro Area, and like Ankeny to the north, it has space to grow on all sides. Waukee has had a significant population increase in recent years, making it the fastest-growing city in Iowa. It estimates a current population of around 35,000 people, which has led to new construction, businesses, parks and schools. Hickman Road, which runs through the city, is a major thoroughfare with shopping and dining options that continue to expand.
New construction homes are next to historic homes.
The "W" Roundabout makes the symbol for Waukee.
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New subdivisions mix with older homes
Subdivisions with fresh pavement and freshly planted trees make up much of Waukee, while other areas have mid-rise townhouses. “Waukee used to be an old farming community, so you’ll still see some homes from the 1950s,” says Jarod Snover, a lifelong Des Moines resident and local agent with Iowa Realty Mills Crossing.
Kris Mehmen, a Realtor with Re/Max Precision, sells in the area and notes its growth. “That’s where you’re going to find a lot of new construction booming...” she says. The median single-family home price in Waukee is in the high $300,000s, which is below the national average and that of neighboring communities like Clive, with a median price in the mid $400,000s. Homes spend an average of 115 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median townhouse price is in the low $200,000s.
Historic homes are scattered throughout the area.
Residential streets are often lined with colorful townhomes.
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Iowa’s open enrollment law gives families flexibility in school choice
The Waukee Community School District has highly rated schools. Northwest High School welcomed its first students in the 2021 school year, and the district purchased a tract of land for a potential third high school to keep up with the growing population. High school students can take classes for college credit at Des Moines Area Community College through the DMACC Career Advantage program. Due to Iowa law, families can enroll their students in a different school district within the state if there is available classroom space.
Waukee Middle School is dedicated to fostering an environment that supports and encourages the growth and development of all its students.
Waukee High School serves half of students in grades 10-12.
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Locals embrace rapid growth and a shift toward entertainment
“When I first moved to the area, Hickman, the main four-lane road, was just gravel,” says Shane Kennedy, Realtor with eXP Realty, who grew up in Waukee. “I would look around and just see cornfields. It's bizarre, you’re in the same area, but it doesn’t feel like it.” Alongside homes and projects like Apple data centers, the city’s newest developments aim to attract a flow of visitors to the city. “[Apple has] given a lot of money to the Waukee area, which has then enabled them to make some amazing park systems,” says Kris Mehmen, a Realtor with Re/Max Precision who sells in the area. Waukee is around 15 miles from Downtown Des Moines, so it's a popular place for those wanting to commute.
In addition to parks, the city now has the still-growing Waukee Towne Center, which aims to provide entertainment, restaurants, shops and nightlife. “I love the growth — It's aggressive, but in a good way,” Kennedy says. “They’re trying to make it a destination where people are going to stay here and go out here.”
Nature trails connect Waukee to the metro’s greenways
With 20 city parks and the public Sugar Creek Municipal Golf Course, Waukee offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation:
Waukee Triumph Park has a dozen diamond fields that are open to local leagues, an 11-acre pond with a fishing pier and a playground.
The city’s 25 miles of nature trails connect to other Des Moines metro trail systems, like The Heart of the Warrior Trail, which connects to Clive’s Greenbelt Trail in Lions Park.
Timberline Campground attracts visitors from the metro area with its fishing pond, swimming pool and dog park.
Waukee Triumph Park lake offers fishing opportunities for residents.
Centennial Park is the main park of the city.
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Traffic flows both ways as jobs shift to West Des Moines
Waukee’s suburban nature makes it a car-dependent area. It’s about 15 miles west of Des Moines via Hickman Road or Interstate 235. “People go downtown, but a bunch of companies have moved out to West Des Moines,” Kennedy says. “So you’ll see a pretty good flow of traffic going both ways in the morning on 235.” The rest of Des Moines’ interstates form a circle connecting residents to other satellite cities like Ankeny and Altoona. Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority buses offer public transportation into the city.
Written By
Joyelle Ronan
Photography Contributed By
Drew Davis
Video By
Conar McDaniel
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Angela Glasgow,
an experienced agent in this area.
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
On average, homes in Waukee, IA sell after 100 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Waukee, IA over the last 12 months is $369,990, down 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Signature Companies of Iowa presents the Whitfield Townhome a stylish two-story with 2 bedrooms, a loft, 1.5 baths, and an oversized 2-car garage. The open main level features 9' ceilings, LVP flooring, and large windows that fill the space with natural light. The kitchen impresses with an oversized pantry, large island, quartz countertops, and stainless steel appliances ALL INCLUDED. A
Signature Companies of Iowa presents the Whitfield Townhome a stylish two-story with 2 bedrooms, a loft, 1.5 baths, and an oversized 2-car garage. The open main level features 9' ceilings, LVP flooring, and large windows that fill the space with natural light. The kitchen impresses with an oversized pantry, large island, quartz countertops, and stainless steel appliances ALL INCLUDED. A
Signature Companies of Iowa presents the Whitfield Townhome a stylish two-story with 2 bedrooms, a loft, 1.5 baths, and an oversized 2-car garage. The open main level features 9' ceilings, LVP flooring, and large windows that fill the space with natural light. The kitchen impresses with an oversized pantry, large island, quartz countertops, and stainless steel appliances ALL INCLUDED. A
Better than new and still covered by the builder warranty, this exceptional 4-bedroom, 3-bath home offers the peace of mind of new construction with thousands of dollars in premium upgrades already completed. With over 2,400 sq. ft. of finished living space, this home showcases elevated finishes and custom details that stand well above the builder basics. The main level is filled with natural
2.8 acres in the heart of Waukee, offering an incredible location near schools and the Jordan Creek area. This home is perfect for family living, featuring five bedrooms and four bathrooms. The fully remodeled kitchen boasts a stunning island and updated appliances, ideal for everyday living and entertaining. Enjoy evenings dining outdoors on the screened-in patio. Upstairs, the primary suite has
Nestled in the highly sought-after Reserve at Daybreak in Waukee, this expansive ranch offers over 3,000 sq ft of thoughtfully designed living space with 5 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. The main level features an open-concept layout filled with natural light, seamlessly connecting the living, dining, and kitchen spaces, along with a serene primary suite featuring a walk-in shower and a custom closet
Welcome to 995 8th Street in Waukee, a thoughtfully designed home that offers the comfort, convenience, and style today’s buyers are looking for. Built in 2019 and set on a generous 0.32-acre lot, this property stands out with its modern construction, open feel, and a layout that lives easily for everyday life. With 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and 1,741 square feet, the home delivers a functional
Welcome to this exceptional Genesis Homes resale in a highly desirable Waukee location near bike trails, shopping, entertainment, and everyday conveniences. Offering nearly 2,700 finished square feet, this well-designed ranch features 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and numerous upgrades that set it apart from similar homes in this price range. The open-concept main level showcases a split-bedroom
This 2 bed, 2.5 bath home features an open-concept layout with high ceilings and abundant natural light. The kitchen offers a breakfast bar, ample cabinet and counter space, stainless steel appliances, a pantry, and tile flooring. Upstairs, the spacious primary suite includes a tiled shower and a large walk-in closet, while the second bedroom also features its own walk-in closet and generous
Looking for a unique home with captivating European details? This SKS Homes masterpiece showcases unmatched craftsmanship in Clive’s sought-after Shadow Creek West within the Waukee School District. With 2,568 SF on the main level, the foyer welcomes you with custom lighted art detail. The chef’s kitchen features a striking Taj Mahal quartzite island and backsplash, custom cabinetry, SS
The Cadbury offers 3,109 square feet of well-designed space, featuring 5 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, and a 3-car garageall on a single story. The main level includes a generous great room that flows seamlessly into a modern kitchen and dining area, creating an ideal space for gatherings. The primary suite provides a private retreat with a spacious bath and walk-in closet. Additional bedrooms offer
The Palmer is a refined and thoughtfully designed ranch plan that brings together open living, timeless design, and everyday functionality. With over 3,200 finished square feet, this home is perfectly suited for both entertaining and relaxed living.Upon entry, the home opens to a light-filled great room with a fireplace and expansive windows. The gourmet kitchen features a large center island,
The Courtyards at Parkside provides its residents with a true "staycation" lifestyle. The HOA provides lawn care, snow removal, common area upkeep as well as a clubhouse facility with swimming pool and fitness center. There are six plans available with hundreds of finish options available to select from. All homes are built on a concrete slab and do offer several structural features such as
Brand-new 2025 ranch in Waukee’s Parkside neighborhood. Main level features a bright, open layout, tray-ceiling living room with built-ins, electric fireplace, and a kitchen with soft-close cabinetry, quartz counters, large island, and walk-in pantry. Primary suite includes a large tiled shower, dual vanities, and a walk-in closet with built-ins. Two additional bedrooms and a full bath complete
Stunning 4-bedroom walk-out ranch on a corner lot bordering Fox Creek Park in a convenient Waukee location. This well-maintained home offers excellent curb appeal with a partial stone exterior, covered front porch, and beautiful green space views. The open-concept main level features a spacious living room with a white stone fireplace and large windows that fill the home with natural light. The
Brick Towne at Kettlestone is now leasing!!Our community offers spacious one and two-bedroom apartment homes, thoughtfully designed with a combination of modern interior finishes and a classic vintage brick exterior.Conveniently nestled in a residential neighborhood, Brick Towne offers close access to grocery stores, shopping, recreation, restaurants, and schools. Plus, with easy
Welcome to your new home in Waukee, IA! This apartment complex offers a variety of amenities designed to enhance your living experience. Enjoy the refreshing outdoor pool during the warm summer months, or keep up with your fitness goals in our state-of-the-art fitness center. The clubhouse is a perfect place to socialize and meet your neighbors, while the playground area provides a fun and safe
Stratford Pointe pairs luxury one and two bedroom apartments with resort-style living, ideally located just steps away from Waukee Northwest High School, shopping, grocery, and the Raccoon River Valley Trail.Each apartment features beautiful modern amenities from large kitchens and granite countertops, to large walk-in closets, 9' ceilings, private balconies/patios, and private parking
When you choose one of our luxury apartments or townhomes in Waukee, Iowa, you gain more than just a place to live—you discover a sanctuary to relax and proudly call home. Whether you opt for a one, two, or three-bedroom apartment or townhome, your experience will be equally delightful. Each of our residences are thoughtfully designed, featuring stylish finishes, private patios, premium quartz
Experience more than just apartment living with us. From the moment you step through our doors, you'll feel the welcoming comfort that makes our residents proud to call us home. Enjoy cutting-edge amenities, beautifully maintained grounds, and a dedicated staff committed to elevating your lifestyle. With convenient shopping, top-rated schools, local museums, and parks nearby, plus community
Redwood Waukee Douglas Parkway is where you'll find the single-story apartment rental you've been looking for. Live in a two-bedroom, two-bathroom, pet-friendly home with an attached garage. Enjoy being surrounded by greenery, with all the amenities of the Waukee community just a stone's throw away. Commute to the hustle and bustle of Des Moines in just 30 minutes, while you feel right at home in
Brick Towne at Prairie Crossing offers a combination of style and comfort. Let the leasing team show you everything this community has to offer. Our apartment community offers you a wide selection of amenities and features. These include: convenient on-site parking options and washers and dryers. It's time to come home to Brick Towne at Prairie Crossing. Contact us or stop in to discuss your new
Welcome home to Rialto! Our luxury townhomes for rent in Waukee, IS offer the perfect blend of comfort and sophistication. Enjoy exceptional amenities and desirable services in a well-connected community that lets you experience conveniences you desire—without sacrificing the peace and tranquility you deserve.
Discover modern apartment living in the heart of Waukee’s growing KeeTown Loop District. Built in 2023, Center Stage offers a perfect blend of style, comfort, and convenience — steps from dining, entertainment, and scenic trails. Enjoy sleek finishes, secure key-fob access, and 24-hour amenities designed to make every day effortless.
Redwood Waukee Hickman Road is where you'll find the single-story apartment you've been looking for. Live in a two-bedroom, two-bathroom, pet-friendly apartment rental home with an attached garage. Enjoy being surrounded by charming greenery, with all the amenities of you could need just a stone's throw away. Plus, you can get to all the arts, entertainment, dining and attractions of downtown Des
Welcome to Centennial Crossing, your welcoming townhomecommunity in Waukee! Here, you'll find an inviting atmosphere close to cozylocal restaurants and charming shops. Our pet-friendly and spacious townhomes for rent in Waukee are theperfect fit for everyone—whether you're a professional, student, family, orsenior. Come take a closer look at what makes our community a wonderful
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