Moving to Urbandale: A Great Place to Call Home—Relocation Guide

Are you considering relocating to Urbandale, IA? Situated at the heart of the Midwest, this vibrant community perfectly harmonizes suburban allure with the conveniences of urban life. With its friendly environment and picturesque scenery, Urbandale could become your new home.

This guide aims to address your inquiries, from where Urbandale is to whether you should move to Urbandale. We will delve into the reasons why Urbandale is a desirable place for many, providing detailed insights to help you decide if it’s the right choice for you.  

Why Choose Urbandale, IA?

Moving to Urbandale, IA, offers a unique blend of suburban tranquility and vibrant community life that is hard to match. What county is Urbandale, Iowa, in? Situated in both Polk and Dallas counties, Urbandale enjoys the perks of being part of the bustling Des Moines Metro Area, giving residents easy access to urban amenities while maintaining a serene suburban feel​.

Location and Demographics

Urbandale’s strategic location at the intersections of Interstates 35 and 80 and Iowa Highway 141 makes it highly accessible, whether you’re commuting to Des Moines or traveling to other major cities. Spanning over 22 square miles, with a population of approximately 46,648 people as of 2022, Urbandale offers a close-knit community feel. A significant portion of the city is in Polk County, although recent expansions have extended into Dallas County​. 

Life in Urbandale, IA, is greatly enhanced by its wide array of parks and recreational activities. Families and outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of green spaces and trails, fostering a strong connection with nature. Additionally, Urbandale is not just about landscapes, as the city boasts numerous cultural institutions and regular community events that enrich the local lifestyle and foster strong community ties.

Are you wondering if you should move to Urbandale, IA? Considering the high quality of life, including safety, education, and community activities, Urbandale is a great choice for families, professionals, and retirees alike. The area’s real estate offers a range of options, from quaint, historic homes to modern developments, catering to various preferences and budgets. With a robust local economy and low unemployment rates, Urbandale also presents ample professional opportunities​.

Residential Insights: Where to Live in Urbandale

Moving to Urbandale, IA, brings the opportunity to choose from a variety of inviting neighborhoods, each with its own character and amenities. Whether you’re a young professional, raising a family, or seeking a peaceful retirement, Urbandale’s communities cater to diverse lifestyles and preferences.

Neighborhood Overview

Urbandale boasts a variety of neighborhoods, each offering its unique blend of amenities and community spirit. Here’s a closer look at some of the key areas:

  • Waterford Landing: Known for its suburban tranquility and easy access to urban facilities, it is ideal for both families and individuals. The neighborhood exemplifies Urbandale’s commitment to combining a hometown feel with the conveniences of a larger city​​.
  • Timberline Village: This neighborhood is popular for its modern homes and well-maintained public spaces, making it a sought-after location for young professionals and families alike.
  • Deer Creek: Offers spacious properties and is well-known for its safety and community-oriented atmosphere, which includes numerous parks and recreational areas.
  • Bent Creek Estates: Renowned for its upscale homes and meticulously landscaped yards, Bent Creek Estates is a top choice for those seeking a luxurious living environment.

Real Estate Market Trends

The real estate market in Urbandale is dynamic and offers a range of housing options. The median home value in Urbandale has seen a steady appreciation, reflecting the city’s growing appeal. 

As of the latest data, median home values are around $344,302, with a robust appreciation rate that surpasses many other cities in Iowa​​. Homes vary widely in price, with typical family homes ranging from $200,000 to $400,000 and more upscale options exceeding $500,000​​.

For those considering moving to Urbandale, IA, the city not only promises a quality life but also a wise investment opportunity, given the healthy real estate appreciation rates. The variety in neighborhoods and housing types ensures that there’s something to fit every taste and budget, making Urbandale a smart choice for prospective homeowners.

Education and Employment in Urbandale

Life in Urbandale is enhanced by its strong educational system, which is evident in the performance of local schools like Urbandale High School. The schools here are noted for their comprehensive academic and extracurricular programs, offering a robust educational environment that contributes to high student success rates.

Notable nearby tertiary institutions include:

  • Drake University: Located in Des Moines, Drake is recognized for its strong emphasis on integrating practical experience with academic learning.
  • Grand View University: Also in Des Moines, Grand View offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs known for their focus on career readiness and skill development.
  • Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC): Offering a wide array of associate degree programs and certifications, DMACC caters to students looking to enter the workforce quickly or planning to transfer to four-year universities.

Job Market and Employment Opportunities

Urbandale’s job market is vibrant, with major employers in sectors such as insurance, financial services, and technology. Notable companies include: 

  • Marsh & McLennan Companies
  • John Deere Intelligent Solutions Group
  • Headquarters of the Iowa Network Services

Safety and Community Life in Urbandale

Is Urbandale, Iowa, safe? When considering safety, Urbandale offers a reassuring environment for its residents. The overall crime rate in Urbandale is near the average for all cities and towns in the United States, with a crime rate of about 21.33 per 1,000 residents. This positions Urbandale in the 61st percentile for safety. 

The city experiences lower rates of violent crimes compared to the national average, with incidents such as assault, robbery, and burglary occurring less frequently than in many other communities of similar size​​.

Community Events and Social Life

Urbandale prides itself on a vibrant community life characterized by numerous events and activities that bring residents together. From the large Fourth of July celebration to the regular Party in the Park events during the summer, the city provides ample opportunities for community engagement and enjoyment. 

These events are complemented by various social clubs and organizations that contribute to the city’s strong sense of community and belonging​​.

Practical Moving Tips to Urbandale

When preparing to move to Urbandale, IA, consider the following steps to ensure a smooth transition:

  • Research Costs and Job Market: Before moving, understand Urbandale’s cost of living and employment opportunities to ensure they meet your financial and career needs.
  • Create a Moving Checklist: Include tasks like updating your address with USPS, setting up utilities, and securing moving supplies.
  • Start Packing Early: Begin with less-used areas like the garage or attic. These spaces often take longer to sort and pack​​.
  • Declutter Before Packing: Sell, donate, or discard items you don’t need. This approach not only lowers your moving expenses but also makes the packing process more manageable.

Embrace Your New Home in Urbandale

Moving to Urbandale, IA, offers an exciting opportunity to be part of a community known for its safety, quality of life, and vibrant local culture. As you plan your relocation, consider You First Moving for a stress-free moving experience. Our team is dedicated to ensuring that your move is as smooth and efficient as possible. Trust us to handle your move so you can focus on settling into your new home and exploring all that Urbandale has to offer.