Let the numbers do the talking.
Des Moines, IA vs Urbandale, IA
Des Moines, IA vs Urbandale, IA: What the data shows
Des Moines, IA is in Des Moines, IA while Urbandale, IA is in Urbandale, IA — both in the same state. On home prices, Des Moines, IA is the more affordable option at $309,300 median — $20,700 less than Urbandale, IA's $330,000. WYLT rates Des Moines, IA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Urbandale, IA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Des Moines, IA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Urbandale, IA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Des Moines, IA has Low flood risk and Urbandale, IA has Low flood risk.
Des Moines, IA is the more walkable neighborhood. Des Moines, IA scores 65/100 (somewhat walkable) versus Urbandale, IA's 29/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Des Moines, IA has the higher school rating — Des Moines, IA rates 6.1/10 and Urbandale, IA rates 6/10.
| Category | Des Moines, IA | Urbandale, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $309K ✓ Lower price | $330K |
| Median Rent | $1K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $58K | $85K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 65/100 ✓ More walkable | 29/100 |
| Transit Score | 57/100 ✓ Better transit | 1/100 |
| Bike Score | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable | 1/100 |
| Commute | 25 min | 20 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.1/10 ✓ Better schools | 6/10 |
| Best for | young professionalsremote workerssmall families with kids | Families looking for quiet suburban lifeCommuters to Des MoinesRetirees who prefer a small-town feel |
Bottom line
Bottom line: Des Moines offers better walkability, transit, and a more vibrant city feel for young professionals and remote workers who value convenience, while Urbandale is a quieter, more car‑dependent suburb that suits families and retirees who prefer a calmer, suburban lifestyle. Choose Des Moines if you want easy access to downtown and public transit; choose Urbandale if you’re looking for a low‑traffic,
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