Living in Altoona means easy access to Des Moines and fun
Altoona maintains a suburban atmosphere and serves as an entertainment destination for the broader metro area. The growing area is home to an amusement park, a horse racing track and casino and an outlet shopping center. In addition to commercial developments, new homes and residential areas are popping up in Altoona. Residents often share the road with seasonal visitors as the city is only around 13 miles east of Des Moines.
Altoona is a growing suburb on the east side of the Des Moines metro area.
Residents love the Bass Pro Shop's beautiful aquarium.
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Tax abatements and pricing trends shaping Altoona housing
Established ranch-style homes, split-levels and townhouses make up much of the west side of town, while new developments and lots spread outward. Most of these recent developments feature Craftsman and Traditional-style homes with two-car garages. “There are some areas in Altoona that still have a tax abatement on new homes, which homeowners like to take advantage of,” says April Breig, Vice President at New Home Site Realty, a real estate company that's sold properties in new Altoona developments.
The median home price in Altoona is in the mid $300,000s, which is significantly higher than Des Moines’ median in the low $200,000s, but on par with nearby suburban communities like Ankeny and Pleasant Hill. Homes tend to stay on the market for an average of 85 days, longer than the national average of 53 days.
The city features a variety of home choices, from older ranch styles to contemporary homes.
Modern ranch and two-story designs are common.
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School choice gives families flexibility across districts
Most of Altoona is zoned for Southeast Polk Community School District, which has highly rated schools. A small number of students on the north side attend schools in the rural Bondurant-Farrar Community School District. Iowa law allows families to enroll their children in other districts within the state if space is available. Southeast Polk High School students can take classes at Des Moines Area Community College and earn college credit. Through DMACC, juniors and seniors can enroll in the Career Academy and complete courses in concentrations such as auto mechanics, computer programming and culinary arts.
Centennial Elementary School's signage proudly shows their mascot, the ram.
Southeast Polk High School was built in 2010.
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Most residents rely on cars for work and errands
Altoona is mostly car-dependent, but some homes are within walking distance of stores and restaurants. Downtown Altoona and many residential areas have sidewalks. The city sits on the eastern side of the Des Moines metropolitan area and is within 13 miles, which is about 15 minutes, of Downtown Des Moines. “The majority of commuters head downtown or to suburbs like Ankeny or West Des Moines,” Breig says. Residents can commute by getting onto U.S. Highway 65 to Interstate 235. Des Moines Area Transit System buses operate routes throughout the city.
Things to do in Altoona include theme parks and casinos
Altoona calls itself “A Development Friendly Community.” Its hotspots range from Prairie Meadows’ horse racing and casino to tract homes on the outskirts of the city. “There is a lot of both residential and commercial growth in Altoona,” says Ryan Rohlf, local Realtor and owner of dsmSOLD Team at Keller Williams Legacy Group. “The Adventureland Resort, Bass Pro Shops and the Outlets of Des Moines are key attractions.”
Adventureland Park’s drop tower and roller coasters come into view when driving on U.S. Route 65 through Altoona. “It’s the main amusement park not just for the Des Moines area, but for the state,” Breig says. “The only other small one is in Okoboji, which is 4 hours away.” The theme park is part of a wider resort development with a campground and hotel. Next door is Prairie Meadows, one of only two nonprofit casinos in the United States with horse racing, an indoor casino and a conference center from May to September.
Adventure Bay provides an alternative to Adventureland to cool off in the summer heat.
Prairie Meadows Casino features a full race track, a full service casino and hotel.
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How Altoona connects parks, trails and community amenities
Altoona has many expansive parks and indoor recreation spaces, several of which are located off 8th Street. “Sports are very big in Altoona,” Breig says. “A lot of teams play at the Sam Wise Youth Complex – soccer, baseball, they have it all.” The Altoona Campus is a state-of-the-art physical fitness facility offering Zumba, cycling, boxing and yoga classes. Bike trails run through subdivisions and connect to amenities like Altoona Aquatics Park and the Altoona Library, eventually linking to the wider Des Moines metro trail system. “And if one isn’t connected already, they are working on getting it all connected,” Breig says.
Haines Park has sculptures scattered about the area for locals to look at.
The Sam Wise Youth Complex has batting cages for residents working on their swing.
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What to know before moving to Altoona
“They are growing because they have businesses,” says Shonna Murrey, a broker associate who is the area leader for Epique Realty and the team leader for The Murrey Group. “They’ve got Amazon there, and it also has a lot of server hubs.” Murrey also says that Altoona’s plentiful shopping and entertainment options make it feel more like a big city when compared to some of Des Moines’ smaller suburbs, like Polk City.
Written By
Joyelle Ronan
Photography Contributed By
Dylan Stowell
Video By
Victoria York
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GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
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On average, homes in Altoona, IA sell after 71 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Altoona, IA over the last 12 months is $339,990, up 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome home to this beautiful 4-bedroom, 3-bath ranch perfectly positioned on a spacious corner lot in a quiet Altoona neighborhood! Step inside to an open layout featuring a bright living room that flows seamlessly into the kitchen and dining area 'ideal for both everyday living and entertaining. Two bedrooms and a full bath offer comfortable space for family or guests, while the primary suite
Why rent when you can buy & have a cheaper monthly payment with something to show for your money! Very nice end unit townhome located in prime location/Altoona. Main floor offers living room with corner gas fireplace, nice dining area with patio view, kitchen includes all kitchen appliances. Laundry area (washer/dryer are included) and 1/2 bath, double car attached garage. Upstairs offers a
Immaculate Tyler-built home nestled in the heart of Altoona, offering exceptional craftsmanship and thoughtful design throughout. This beautifully maintained residence features 3 bedrooms plus a dedicated office, perfect for today's flexible lifestyle.The spacious family room flows seamlessly into the kitchen, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere ideal for both everyday living and
Like-new and move-in ready! This 2020-built ranch-style townhome offers 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms with a thoughtfully designed layout that maximizes space and comfort. The open-concept main living area is bright and welcoming, perfect for entertaining or everyday living. The primary suite features a walk-in closet and private bath, while a second bedroom, full bath, and main-floor laundry add
If you’ve been waiting for space, a great garage, and a home in a mature, established neighborhood—this is the one to see. Welcome to this lovingly maintained ranch home situated on a desirable corner lot in Altoona, offering a great combination of space, functionality, and outdoor living. Step inside to find a spacious kitchen with plenty of room to cook and gather, featuring sliding glass doors
This home is perfectly designed for comfort, connection, and everyday living. Inside, the family room features a fireplace with shiplap surround and a large picture window that floods the space with natural light. The open dining area and kitchen with crisp white cabinets make everyday meals and entertaining effortless, while the slider opens to a deck overlooking the fully fenced backyard ideal
Welcome to this well-maintained, single-owner ground floor condo offering 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms with a functional, comfortable layout. The primary suite features a private en-suite bathroom and walk-in closet, creating a convenient and private retreat. This home includes multiple storage closets throughout, providing plenty of space for organization. Recent updates include improvements to
One owner's custom ranch is nestled on a large corner lot in Spring Creek Estates. Covered front porch invites you into the wide entryway. Vaulted great room showcases a fireplace flanked on either side w/shelving & storage for media components. Dining area adjoins the white kitchen w/white under counter lighting, quartz counters paired w/white backsplash & soft close drawers/doors. Beautiful
Well-maintained ranch offering 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and main-level laundry. The functional kitchen opens to the living and dining areas, creating a comfortable and efficient layout for everyday living and entertaining. The lower level features an open finished space with a 4th bedroom and wet bar, adding flexible living and entertaining options. 2-car attached garage.Major updates include
Welcome to this well-maintained 2016 ranch home in the heart of Altoona, offering the perfect blend of functionality, comfort, and modern style. The open-concept main level features a bright and inviting living space that flows seamlessly into the dining area and kitchen—ideal for both everyday living and entertaining. Just off the main living area, the spacious primary suite includes a walk-in
Welcome to this well-maintained 3-bedroom, 4-bathroom two-story home in the heart of Altoona, offering over 2,400 finished square feet of functional living space and sitting on a spacious corner lot. From the moment you walk in, you’ll appreciate the warm hardwood floors and a layout designed for both everyday living and entertaining. The main level features multiple living areas, including a
Welcome home to this 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom open concept ranch built in 2022, where contemporary design meets everyday functionality. The heart of this home features a spacious kitchen equipped with stainless steel appliances, a large island perfect for entertaining, and a convenient pantry for all your storage needs. Retreat to the master suite, complete with private bathroom and a generous
*** Credit scores above 700 receive an additional $40 OFF EVERY month *** MOVE IN TODAY! or reserve an apartment for a future date. Water, sewer and trash included! Garages available! Emergency Maintenance 24/7. Cat friendly (restrictions apply), storage available, and a playground and laundry onsite. Bridlewood Apartment Homes in Altoona, IA, offers a picturesque living
Welcome to Blue Ridge Commons in Altoona, IA, where modern style and everyday comfort come together. Choose from spacious studio, one, two, or three-bedroom apartments and townhomes with sleek finishes. Enjoy a resort-style pool, fitness center, clubhouse, private fenced in yards, and game room. Just minutes from Adventureland, the Outlets of Des Moines, and top local dining, this community puts
Located in a vibrant community, Ironwood Condos offers the perfect blend of luxury and relaxation, with easy access to local attractions and nearby Des Moines. Our spacious 1, 2, and 3-bedroom apartments range from 894 to 1391 sq. ft and feature modern layouts designed for your lifestyle. Enjoy convenient amenities like a swimming pool and clubhouse to enhance your lifestyle. Each apartment comes
Redwood Altoona is where youll find the single-story apartment you've been looking for. Live in a two-bedroom, two-bathroom, pet-friendly home with an attached garage. Enjoy being surrounded by charming greenery, with all the amenities of the Altoona community just a stones throw away. Plus, you can get to the hustle and bustle of Des Moines in just 15 minutes. But more than that, you can feel at
Altoona Towers delivers clean, modern apartment living just minutes from Des Moines. Enjoy the convenience of nearby shopping, dining, and top Altoona attractionsall in a welcoming community that blends comfort, value, and small-town charm.
The Emory is a luxurious apartment community located in an unbeatable location in Altoona, IA, conveniently near Des Moines. With space ranging from 758 - 1,235 sq. ft. across a wide array of 1, 2, and 3-bedroom floor plans, we're sure to have a place you can call home. Residents get to enjoy various amenities including a swimming pool, private on-site dog park, fitness center, clubhouse, outdoor
Venbury Trail is located on the green belt in Altoona, a suburb of Des Moines. It is adjacent to the 40-mile bike trail and the Altoona Service Campus fitness facility. Venbury Trail includes a large playground and picnic area. This is a superb location is close to shopping and allows easy interstate access to all areas of Des Moines.
Altoona Terrace is a eighty-four unit, three story complex. Secure entry. Beautifully landscaped grounds. Easy access to 80/35. fifteen minutes to downtown Des Moines.
You can have it all at Centennial Place! - Celebrate Value...Enjoy conveniences designed to make your life carefree, like a private playground and basketball court at your front door, full size energy efficient appliances for minimal utility usage, and Altoona's Elementary School located just across the street. You can have it all!
Center Place Lofts features beautiful 1 bedroom 1 bathroom apartments in a convenient Altoona location. Each apartment offers stainless steel appliances, soft close cabinets, and oversized countertops with a breakfast bar. Private balconies and open layouts create a comfortable and modern living space.Located directly across the street from a park and bike trail, Center Place Lofts makes it
Move-In Special: Free 55” TV — call for detailsEnjoy peaceful, comfortable living just off I-80 in a community designed for quality, energy efficiency, and privacy. Located in the highly rated Southeast Polk School District, these homes offer modern conveniences in a quiet, well maintained settingApartment FeaturesBrand-name appliancesNeutral, modern floor coveringsGas heat &
Triple Crown offers 2 bedroom apartments as well as 2 and 3 bedroom townhomes. Our apartments and townhomes are clean, well-maintained, and a conveniently located option, near Adventureland, Paririe Meadows, and I-80. All homes are being refreshed with updated flooring and modern paint colors. Our property has tons of yard space, a playground, basketball court, gazebo, and community laundry
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