Explore the best Des Moines suburbs for families — from school quality to community feel. Whether you're drawn to new developments or established neighborhoods, this guide will help you narrow down the options that best match your lifestyle, commute preferences, and long-term goals.
By Blue Cow Moving & Storage | April 17, 2025
Choosing the right suburb is one of the most important decisions your family will make when relocating. Your home base shapes everything — from your child’s education to your work commute, access to amenities, and even your weekend activities. Fortunately, the Des Moines metro is packed with family-oriented communities that offer a wide range of lifestyles. Whether you’re searching for an area with top-rated schools, quick access to the city, or peaceful neighborhoods with big backyards, there’s a place that can meet your needs.
This guide breaks down key decision points to help you find the best Des Moines suburb for your family. We’ll explore school district performance, community feel, commute times, and local perks — all with a focus on what truly matters to families with children. From the well-established charm of Urbandale to the fast-growing appeal of Ankeny and Waukee, each suburb brings something unique to the table. Planning ahead and visiting neighborhoods in person can make all the difference when it comes to feeling confident about your choice.
Step 1: Start with the Schools
For families with children, school quality is usually the #1 factor in deciding where to live. In the Des Moines area, you’ll find a variety of school districts — each with its own reputation, academic strengths, and community support. Some districts are known for STEM programs and college prep. Others focus on smaller class sizes or strong arts and athletics. Regardless of your priorities, it’s worth diving into district report cards, parent reviews, and school tours before making a final decision.
Don’t rely solely on online rankings. Visit schools in person when you can. Walk the hallways. Ask teachers about curriculum flexibility. Talk to parents who live in the neighborhood. Some families prioritize strong AP offerings or dual-language programs. Others care more about extracurriculars, diversity, or afterschool care. Understanding your family’s specific needs will help guide your research toward the best fit.
Also, keep in mind that district boundaries don’t always align perfectly with city limits. In some suburbs, a single street can be split between two different districts. Always confirm your address with the local school district office before buying or renting.
Urbandale
Districts: Urbandale Community School District & Waukee Community School District
Urbandale offers a great balance for families looking to settle in a well-rounded suburb. The community is established, quiet, and filled with mature trees, walkable neighborhoods, and a variety of parks. Urbandale CSD is known for its personalized approach to education and recently opened a state-of-the-art high school. The district has invested heavily in STEM labs, arts spaces, and inclusive programs that support both college-bound students and those pursuing trades or technical careers.
Parts of Urbandale also fall into the Waukee School District — one of the fastest-growing in Iowa. Waukee CSD is consistently praised for its innovative learning model and expansive campus network, with brand-new buildings and a strong focus on technology integration. Families who live near the border of these districts should pay close attention to zoning maps when house hunting. Zoning shifts can impact elementary school assignments, especially in newer developments.
If you're considering Urbandale, plan a weekend to check out Walker Johnston Park, the Urbandale Public Library, and the Living History Farms area. These family-friendly amenities give the suburb a strong community vibe. For many, it’s the perfect mix of small-town feel and metro convenience. Learn more about what it’s like to move to this area on our page about Urbandale moving services.
Tip: Zoning boundaries change often, especially in fast-growing suburbs like Waukee and West Des Moines. Check both current maps and future rezoning proposals before making your move. This can prevent surprises that affect your child’s school path over time.
Step 2: Consider Commute Time
Next up is commute time — one of the most underestimated parts of choosing a new home. Even a 10-minute difference in drive time can add up to hours each week. In Des Moines, most suburbs are 15 to 30 minutes from downtown. But depending on traffic, construction, and route options, that estimate can vary dramatically.
For example, families who work near downtown Des Moines might find West Des Moines or Windsor Heights to be the most accessible options. These areas offer quick access to I-235 and I-80. On the other hand, suburbs like Ankeny, Altoona, and Waukee are growing rapidly and provide more space — but they may require longer commutes depending on your workplace. It’s always smart to test your route during rush hour, especially if you'll be juggling daycare pickups or school drop-offs during your morning drive.
If both parents work in different parts of the city, consider a centrally located suburb like Clive or Johnston. These offer more balanced drive times in multiple directions. You can also look into carpool programs or afterschool activities that offer flexible pickup times — a big help for working families.
Still trying to decide when to make the move? Our guide on the best time of year to move in Des Moines breaks down seasonal advantages and local trends. Whether you’re aiming for a summer move, a mid-year school change, or a quieter winter relocation, we can help you find the right timing.
