Discover what makes moving to Waukee Iowa such a popular choice — from schools and parks to new neighborhoods and trails.
By Blue Cow Moving & Storage | April 17, 2025
Moving to Waukee Iowa has become a top consideration for families, professionals, and new homeowners alike. Located just west of Des Moines, this rapidly growing suburb offers high-quality schools, beautiful green spaces, and a modern lifestyle that’s hard to beat.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything from Waukee’s best neighborhoods and school options to local dining and what to expect when you move.
Waukee at a Glance
- Population: Approximately 30,000 and growing
- School District: Waukee Community School District (top-ranked in Iowa)
- Location: 20–30 minutes west of downtown Des Moines
- Vibe: Energetic, modern, family-centered
- Housing: Mostly new construction with HOAs and townhomes
Top Neighborhoods for Families and Professionals
Prairie Crossing
This master-planned neighborhood includes new homes, trails, and parks. Its location near schools makes it perfect for families moving to Waukee Iowa.
Clayton Estates
Located near Warrior Lane, Clayton Estates offers quiet streets and newer homes. Buyers often appreciate the easy access to main roads and spacious lots.
Kettlestone Development
For those looking for walkability and mixed-use living, Kettlestone features access to restaurants, retail, and miles of paved trails — all minutes from home.
What Makes Waukee Schools Stand Out
Waukee’s school district is a major driver for people moving to Waukee Iowa. It offers:
- Modern facilities and expanding campuses
- Career-prep programming through the Waukee Innovation & Learning Center
- Consistently strong academic and athletic performance
- Broad extracurricular choices for students of all interests
Before you buy, double-check zoning boundaries. The district is rapidly expanding, and lines are updated regularly.
Parks, Trails, and Community Perks
Waukee has invested heavily in trails, recreation, and inclusive spaces. Here are a few local favorites:
- Triumph Park: Inclusive playground, turf sports fields, and scenic walking paths
- Raccoon River Valley Trail: 89-mile paved path connecting several Central Iowa cities
- Sugar Creek Golf Course: A 9-hole public course with scenic fairways
- Waukee Library & Community Center: Home to free classes, events, and youth programs
Dining and Retail Destinations
Although commercial options are still growing, Waukee’s dining and shopping scenes are expanding fast. Popular picks include:
- Hy-Vee and Fareway for daily groceries
- Waukee Towne Center and quick access to Jordan Creek Mall for retail
Tips for Moving to Waukee Iowa
- Double-check GPS accuracy. Many new homes aren’t yet mapped, which can delay deliveries and move-in support.
- Understand HOA rules in advance. Most new builds fall under HOA guidelines. We can coordinate with your HOA to ensure a seamless move.
- Book your move early. Summer is peak season. If you’re moving to Waukee Iowa in June, July, or August, secure your movers four to six weeks in advance.
Why Move with Blue Cow
At Blue Cow Moving & Storage, we’ve helped dozens of families move to Waukee. Our local teams know how to navigate construction zones, tight streets, and HOA requirements with care and professionalism.
- Local movers trained for Waukee’s road layouts
- Full-service options including packing and short-term storage
- Fair, transparent pricing — no last-minute surprises
Waukee Move-In Checklist
- Explore neighborhoods based on lifestyle and access
- Check zoning with the Waukee School District
- Set up utilities with MidAmerican and City of Waukee
- Plan for summer event traffic near parks and schools
- Schedule your moving company early — especially for new builds
