Central Iowa is an exciting and rapidly growing region, with many communities experiencing significant growth in recent years. According to the Iowa Association of Realtors, the state's housing market is strong, with a 12% increase in home sales compared to the previous year, and a 4.4% increase in median home prices. Whether you're looking for a new place to call home, start a business, or invest in real estate, the fastest growing communities in Central Iowa offer many opportunities. Here are some of the fastest growing communities in Central Iowa in 2022, and why they're such popular places to live, work and play.
Ankeny
Ankeny is one of the fastest-growing communities in Central Iowa, with a population growth rate of 2.8% in the past year. The city offers a high quality of life, excellent schools, and a diverse range of job opportunities. The median price of homes for sale in Ankeny is $304,900, and the average days on the market for homes sold in the past year was just 22 days. The city also boasts over 40 parks and 80 miles of trails. Ankeny's Prairie Trail development is a popular destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment, with a variety of shops and restaurants, a movie theater, and a state-of-the-art aquatic center. Ankeny is also home to a growing business and industry sector, including a data center cluster, as well as several leading companies in the fields of technology, insurance, and health care. There are endless options for things to do in Ankeny!
Grimes
Grimes is another rapidly growing community in Central Iowa, with a population growth rate of 3.1% in the past year. The city is located just north of Des Moines and offers a small-town feel with easy access to the amenities of the larger city. The median price of homes for sale in Grimes is $295,000, and the average days on the market for homes sold in the past year was 29 days. Grimes also hosts many community events throughout the year, including a summer festival, farmers market, and holiday celebrations. In recent years, Grimes has experienced significant growth, with new businesses and residential developments popping up throughout the community.
Waukee
Waukee is a fast-growing community located just west of all the things to do in West Des Moines, with a population growth rate of 2.6% in the past year. The city offers a strong sense of community and a high quality of life, with excellent schools, parks, and amenities. The median price of homes for sale in Waukee is $363,000, and the average days on the market for homes sold in the past year was 21 days. Waukee is known for its excellent school system (including 2 high schools), parks, a popular community center, sports complexes, and a network of bike and pedestrian trails. The city is also home to the Sugar Creek Golf Course, making it a popular destination for golf enthusiasts. There are endless things to do in Waukee, which is also known for its vibrant downtown area, which offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and community events throughout the year.
Norwalk
Norwalk is a growing community located south of Des Moines, with a population growth rate of 2.5% in the past year. The city offers a friendly community and easy access to the amenities of the larger city. The median price of homes for sale in in Norwalk is $288,000, and the average days on the market for homes sold in the past year was 28 days. Norwalk is known for its excellent schools, including the Norwalk Community School District, which is highly regarded for its academic programs and extracurricular activities. Norwalk is also known for its many parks and outdoor recreational opportunities, which offer fishing, boating, hiking, and camping. Additionally, the city has a strong sense of community, with many local events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Norwalk Easter Egg Hunt, the Norwalk Farmer's Market, and the annual Norwalk Corn Carnival.
Bondurant
Bondurant is a small but rapidly growing community located just east of Des Moines, with a population growth rate of 2.8% in the past year. The city offers a peaceful and friendly atmosphere, with easy access to the amenities of the larger city. The median price of homes for sale in Bondurant is $262,000, and the average days on the market for homes sold in the past year was 18 days. Bondurant offers a peaceful and friendly atmosphere, making it a great place to raise a family. Bondurant is also home to many local businesses, including restaurants, shops, and other services, which adds to the community's small-town charm. In recent years, Bondurant has also been experiencing rapid growth, as many families are drawn to its affordable housing, low crime rate, and convenient location just northeast of Des Moines.
Winterset
Winterset is a growing community located southwest of the numerous homes for sale in West Des Moines and its much sought after real estate market. Winterset is gaining ground though, with an impressive population growth rate of 2.4% in the past year. The city is known for its charming downtown area and beautiful covered bridges. Winterset's affordable housing, low crime rate, and access to outdoor recreation opportunities make it an attractive place to live. The city is home to the historic John Wayne Birthplace Museum and hosts the annual Covered Bridge Festival. The median price of homes for sale in Winterset is $176,800 and the average days on market for homes in the area is around 45 days.
Adel
Adel is a fast-growing community located just west of Des Moines, with a population growth rate of 2.2% in the past year. The city is known for its friendly community, excellent schools, and growing business sector. Adel is home to the popular Raccoon River Valley Trail, an 89-mile bike trail that winds through scenic rural landscapes. Its affordable housing and easy access to the amenities of the larger city make it an attractive option for families and young professionals. The median price of homes for sale in Adel is $191,000 and the average days on market for homes in the area is around 30 days.
Polk City
Polk City is a growing community located just north of Des Moines, with a population growth rate of 2.1% in the past year. The city is known for its scenic Saylorville Lake and access to outdoor recreation opportunities. The city is home to the Big Creek State Park and the TCI Golf Course, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Polk City's strong sense of community, affordable housing, and easy access to the amenities of the larger city make it an attractive place to call home. The median price of homes for sale in Polk City is $259,700 and the average days on market for homes in the area is around 40 days.
Central Iowa is a rapidly growing region with many exciting communities to explore. The fastest growing communities have people moving to Central Iowa because they offer excellent schools, a strong sense of community, and a high quality of life. This makes them great places to live, work, and play. Whether you're looking for a new place to buy a home or a new business opportunity, one of the luxury homes for sale in Ankeny or one of the beautiful acreages for sale near Des Moines, Central Iowa's has something for everyone.