Compare the top suburbs in the Des Moines metro — Ankeny, West Des Moines, and Urbandale — to find the best fit for your move.
By Blue Cow Moving & Storage | April 17, 2025
Thinking about relocating to the Des Moines metro? You’re not alone — it’s one of the fastest-growing areas in the Midwest. With a mix of job opportunities, quality schools, and vibrant neighborhoods, it’s easy to see why. But deciding where to live within the metro can be a challenge. That’s where this guide comes in.
Many homebuyers narrow their search to three standout suburbs: Ankeny, West Des Moines, and Urbandale. While all three offer great amenities and strong appeal, the differences in lifestyle, cost, and vibe can significantly affect your experience. Whether you're planning a cross-town move or coming in from out of state, it’s important to find a suburb that aligns with your goals and preferences.
Below, we break down each suburb’s personality, school system, housing market, commute options, and more — so you can confidently choose the best suburb near Des Moines for your needs.
Quick Snapshot: Suburb Personality Profiles
Here’s a top-level view of how these three Des Moines suburbs compare when it comes to their general vibe and who they’re best suited for.
| Suburb | Best For | Vibe | School District |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ankeny | Families, commuters | Fast-growing, active, suburban | Ankeny Community Schools |
| West Des Moines | Young professionals, families | Upscale, diverse, metro-accessible | WDMCS & Waukee CSD |
| Urbandale | Families, retirees | Quiet, established, park-focused | UCSD & Waukee CSD |
Schools & Education
Ankeny: Entirely served by Ankeny Community School District, which is well regarded for its consistent quality across schools. Families benefit from newer facilities, excellent extracurricular programs, and strong community involvement. With two high schools and several elementary and middle schools, the district is designed to grow with the city.
West Des Moines: Unique in that it straddles two high-performing districts — West Des Moines Community Schools and Waukee Community School District. Students here can benefit from award-winning STEM initiatives, college-level coursework, and strong athletic programs. Parents should double-check attendance zones, as boundaries can affect where students go to school.
Urbandale: Known for its close-knit school community and supportive teacher-student relationships. The district recently opened a new high school in 2023, reflecting its investment in modern education. Class sizes tend to be smaller than in nearby suburbs, which appeals to families who value individual attention and community engagement.
Tip: Always confirm school district boundaries when buying a home, particularly in West Des Moines and Urbandale where lines can shift between districts.
Housing & Cost of Living
Housing prices across these suburbs remain relatively affordable compared to national averages, but there are distinct differences in cost and inventory. Here's how they compare:
| Category | Ankeny | West Des Moines | Urbandale |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | ~$290,000 | ~$330,000 | ~$310,000 |
| New Construction | Abundant | Available west of Jordan Creek | Steady |
| Lot Sizes | Medium to large | Widely varies | Spacious, especially in older areas |
| HOAs | Common in new builds | Frequent in west side | Moderate |
Commute & Accessibility
Access to work and city amenities is a huge factor in suburb selection. Here's what to expect from each:
- Ankeny: 15–25 minutes to downtown via I-35. Excellent for northside access and airport proximity.
- West Des Moines: 10–20 minutes via I-235 or Mills Civic Parkway. Fastest for downtown, hospitals, and corporate campuses.
- Urbandale: 15–20 minutes via I-80, Hickman, or Douglas. Reliable routes with moderate congestion.
Many commuters find West Des Moines the most flexible for varied jobs across the metro due to its central location.
Parks, Shopping & Amenities
Ankeny: With over 60 parks and direct access to the High Trestle Trail, Ankeny is built for active lifestyles. Families love the Prairie Ridge Sports Complex and Cascade Falls Aquatic Center.
West Des Moines: Jordan Creek Town Center offers retail and dining in one place. Raccoon River Park and Valley Junction host events, trails, and community hubs like Smash Park.
Urbandale: Known for serenity and green space. You’ll find more than 50 parks, including Walker Johnston Park, plus quiet dining spots like Urban Grill for laid-back evenings.
How to Decide Which Suburb Fits Best
- Choose Ankeny: If you're seeking new construction, planned developments, and a consistent school system in a family-first community.
- Choose West Des Moines: If you’re drawn to urban convenience, diverse housing, and quick access to Des Moines hotspots.
- Choose Urbandale: If quiet streets, well-established homes, and expansive parks are more your speed.
Your Local Moving Partner
Blue Cow Moving & Storage brings experience, professionalism, and friendly service to families settling into the suburbs of Des Moines. From timing your move to navigating narrow HOA streets, we’ll help you arrive smoothly — wherever you’re headed.
Des Moines Suburb Comparison Checklist
- Visit neighborhoods at different times of day to feel the atmosphere
- Review commute options and typical traffic patterns
- Verify school district boundaries, taxes, and municipal services
- Ask about HOA rules if buying new construction
- Book movers early — Des Moines spring and summer slots fill quickly
