Urbandale, a vibrant suburb of Des Moines, Iowa, is known for its strong community spirit, excellent schools, and convenient access to city amenities. With a variety of parks, shopping districts, and recreational activities, it has become an attractive destination for families, young professionals, and retirees alike. This article explores the best residential areas in Urbandale, highlighting their unique characteristics, housing options, and average prices.
Table of Contents
Walnut Creek
(Image for illustration purposes only.)
Walnut Creek is a scenic residential neighborhood known for its tree-lined streets, spacious yards, and close-knit community. It's ideal for families and offers easy access to parks and recreational facilities.
Characteristics of the Walnut Creek
* Culture: Family-friendly atmosphere with community events
* Transportation: Well-connected by public transportation and roads
* Services: Nearby grocery stores, parks, and schools
* Environment: Peaceful and suburban
Housing Options in the Walnut Creek
Single-family homes, Townhouses
Average Home Prices in the Walnut Creek
* Buying: $250,000 – $350,000
* Renting: $1,500 – $2,000/month
Urbandale Centre
(Image for illustration purposes only.)
Urbandale Centre is the bustling commercial heart of the city, offering a blend of residential options close to businesses and local amenities. It is perfect for those who appreciate urban living with easy access to dining and shopping.
Characteristics of the Urbandale Centre
* Culture: Diverse dining and entertainment options
* Transportation: Excellent transportation routes, including buses
* Services: Variety of shops, restaurants, and community services
* Environment: Vibrant and lively
Housing Options in the Urbandale Centre
Condos, Apartments
Average Home Prices in the Urbandale Centre
* Buying: $200,000 – $300,000
* Renting: $1,200 – $1,800/month
Northwest Urbandale
(Image for illustration purposes only.)
Northwest Urbandale features spacious homes in a family-friendly setting, with plenty of parks and recreational options nearby. It's ideal for those looking for a suburban area with access to top-rated schools.
Characteristics of the Northwest Urbandale
* Culture: Community-oriented with annual neighborhood events
* Transportation: Car-friendly, public transport available
* Services: Close to schools, parks, and medical facilities
* Environment: Quiet and residential
Housing Options in the Northwest Urbandale
Single-family homes, Larger plots
Average Home Prices in the Northwest Urbandale
* Buying: $275,000 – $400,000
* Renting: $1,700 – $2,200/month
South Urbandale
(Image for illustration purposes only.)
South Urbandale offers a mix of residential areas that cater to various lifestyles, with an emphasis on family living. The area is highlighted by larger homes and proximity to recreational activities.
Characteristics of the South Urbandale
* Culture: Active community with sports and family events
* Transportation: Good road access, public transportation available
* Services: Nearby schools, parks, and shopping centers
* Environment: Friendly and engaging
Housing Options in the South Urbandale
Single-family homes, Split-level homes
Average Home Prices in the South Urbandale
* Buying: $300,000 – $450,000
* Renting: $1,800 – $2,500/month
Crestview Acres
(Image for illustration purposes only.)
Crestview Acres is a residential area known for its spacious properties and beautiful landscaping. This neighborhood is particularly appealing to families and those seeking a tranquil environment close to amenities.
Characteristics of the Crestview Acres
* Culture: Strong community bonds with active neighborhood watch
* Transportation: Car essential, limited public transit
* Services: Local shops, schools, and recreational facilities nearby
* Environment: Calm and nurturing
Housing Options in the Crestview Acres
Single-family homes, Custom-built residences
Average Home Prices in the Crestview Acres
* Buying: $350,000 – $500,000
* Renting: $2,000 – $2,800/month
Kensington Park
(Image for illustration purposes only.)
Kensington Park is characterized by its modern homes and nearby amenities. It's a favored area for professionals and families looking for a blend of convenience and comfort.
Characteristics of the Kensington Park
* Culture: Modern lifestyle with a mix of young professionals and families
* Transportation: Convenient access to major roads and public transport
* Services: Proximity to shopping centers, schools, and parks
* Environment: Contemporary and dynamic
Housing Options in the Kensington Park
Modern homes, Townhouses
Average Home Prices in the Kensington Park
* Buying: $350,000 – $475,000
* Renting: $1,900 – $2,600/month
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Residential Areas in Urbandale:
The best residential areas in Urbandale include Walnut Creek, Urbandale Centre, Northwest Urbandale, South Urbandale, Crestview Acres, and Kensington Park.
Walnut Creek and South Urbandale are particularly known for their family-friendly environment and access to schools and parks.
Urbandale offers a range of housing options, including single-family homes, townhouses, condos, and apartments in various styles and sizes.
Generally, newer developments in Northwest and South Urbandale may offer more competitive pricing, while areas like Urbandale Centre might be higher due to proximity to amenities.
The average cost of living in Urbandale is moderate, with housing prices ranging from approximately $200,000 to $500,000, depending on the area.
Yes, Urbandale has several amenities that cater to retirees, including accessible public services, recreational centers, and a strong sense of community.
Urbandale is home to top-rated public schools, private school options, and a branch of Des Moines Area Community College.
Urbandale has good public transportation, with access to bus routes making it easy to connect with Des Moines and nearby areas.
There are numerous parks, trails, and recreational facilities throughout Urbandale, including sports fields, playgrounds, and community centers.
Yes, Urbandale offers a variety of shopping districts and dining options, especially in areas like Urbandale Centre and South Urbandale.
Conclusion on the Best Residential Areas in Urbandale:
Urbandale, Polk County, IA offers a variety of diverse residential areas that cater to different lifestyles and preferences. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly neighborhood like Walnut Creek, the vibrant atmosphere of Urbandale Centre, or the tranquility found in Crestview Acres, there is a suitable option for everyone. The strong community spirit, excellent educational opportunities, and recreational facilities make Urbandale an ideal place to live, work, and raise a family. Selecting the right neighborhood in Urbandale will ultimately depend on individual lifestyle preferences, commuting needs, and proximity to local services.
About the Author
Published by:Eribert De Oliveira
Mechatronics Engineer and founder of Mi Inmueble Online, with a background in real estate. I combine technology and analysis to help you find the best areas to live.