Johnston, Iowa
Established Community • Top Schools • Family Values
Welcome to Johnston
Where families put down roots and communities thrive
The Family-First Community
Johnston has earned its reputation as one of the Des Moines metro's premier family communities. Unlike newer, rapidly-growing suburbs, Johnston offers the stability and character of an established neighborhood combined with modern amenities and excellent schools.
What sets Johnston apart is the genuine sense of community. Neighbors know each other. Kids play together in the streets. Parents volunteer at schools and coach youth sports. The community invests in what matters — top-rated schools, safe neighborhoods, well-maintained parks, and family-oriented events.
Located just northwest of Des Moines, Johnston offers an ideal commute to downtown (12 minutes), easy access to West Des Moines and Ankeny employers, and a central location that puts all of the metro's amenities within 15-20 minutes.
Quick Facts
- County: Polk County
- ZIP Code: 50131
- School District: Johnston CSD
- Founded: 1969
- Population: 24,000+
- Median Income: $95,000
- Crime Rate: Very low
- Character: Established, family
Johnston Community Schools
Consistently ranked among Iowa's top school districts
Academic Excellence
- Consistently 9/10 ratings across grades
- 96%+ graduation rate
- Extensive Advanced Placement program
- Strong STEM focus and programs
- Award-winning fine arts
- High college acceptance rates
Athletics & Activities
- Johnston Dragons (competitive all sports)
- State championship programs
- Outstanding band and choir
- Competitive speech and debate
- Robotics and academic teams
- 100+ clubs and organizations
🎯 Why Families Choose Johnston Schools
Johnston CSD isn't just highly-rated on paper — it's a district where students genuinely thrive. The combination of academic rigor, extensive extracurriculars, modern facilities, and caring staff creates an environment where kids are challenged, supported, and prepared for whatever comes next. Parents consistently cite the schools as the #1 reason they chose Johnston.
👨👩👧👦 Living the Johnston Family Lifestyle
Johnston isn't just a place to live — it's a place to raise kids, build friendships, and create memories. The community intentionally fosters connections through parks, programs, and events that bring neighbors together.
Why Families Love Johnston: Safe neighborhoods where kids play outside. Excellent schools from kindergarten through high school. Terra Park — the crown jewel 160-acre recreation area with trails, lakes, sports fields, and playgrounds. A community center offering year-round programs for all ages.
The Johnston Way: Neighbors look out for each other. Families volunteer in schools and coach youth sports. Community events are well-attended and genuinely fun. People move here for the schools and stay for the people.
Growing Up in Johnston: Kids walk or bike to school. They play organized sports and participate in activities. Summer days are spent at Terra Park or the community pool. Families attend high school football games on Friday nights. It's the childhood experience parents want for their kids.
Johnston Lifestyle & Amenities
Everything families need, all in one community
Terra Park
Johnston's 160-acre centerpiece:
- Paved trails around two lakes
- Multiple playgrounds for all ages
- Sports fields and courts
- Fishing and wildlife viewing
- Dog park for furry friends
- Year-round beauty and recreation
Recreation Programs
Johnston Parks & Recreation offers:
- Johnston Community Center
- Youth sports leagues (all seasons)
- Summer camps and programs
- Adult fitness and recreation
- Special events year-round
- Senior programs and activities
Shopping & Dining
Convenient access to everything:
- Merle Hay Mall (5 minutes)
- Local shopping and services
- Hy-Vee and Target nearby
- Growing restaurant scene
- Jordan Creek (15 minutes)
- West Des Moines retail corridor
Community Events
Year-round gatherings:
- Johnston Green Days (annual festival)
- Movies in the Park (summer)
- Halloween events
- Holiday celebrations
- High school sporting events
- Community concerts
Johnston Real Estate Market
December 2025 — Stable market with steady demand from families
💡 Sarah's Market Insights
Johnston's market reflects its stability and desirability. Families move here and stay — average homeownership duration is 12+ years. This means lower turnover and tighter inventory. When homes list, they move quickly (20 days average). The market is driven by families prioritizing schools and community. The $300K-$400K range sees most activity. Well-maintained homes in established neighborhoods sell at or above list price. Best value: slightly older homes (1980s-1990s) needing cosmetic updates — Johnston's reputation carries value even for dated properties.
⚠️ Insurance Considerations for Johnston Homes
As a property insurance expert with 10+ years of experience, I help buyers identify potential insurability issues BEFORE making an offer. Here's what to know about Johnston:
✅ Generally Favorable
Johnston homes range from 1970s-2020s, with most built in the 1980s-2000s. Overall insurability is good, but age-specific issues can arise. Most carriers are comfortable insuring Johnston properties.
🏠 Age-Related Concerns
Homes from the 1970s-1980s may have original roofs, HVAC, or outdated electrical panels. Carriers scrutinize homes 40+ years old more carefully. I help identify these during showings.
🌪️ Iowa Storm Risk
Like all of Iowa, Johnston experiences severe weather. Hail and wind damage are primary concerns. Many Johnston roofs were replaced after major 2011 and 2018 hail storms.
💧 Minimal Flood Risk
Johnston sits on elevated ground with good drainage. Flood insurance rarely required. Some basements experience water intrusion during heavy rains — verify sump pump function.
💰 Typical Insurance Costs
Expect $1,200-$1,800/year for typical Johnston home ($325K value). Newer homes (post-2000) see rates 15-20% lower than older properties. Shop multiple carriers for best rates.
✅ Sarah's Pre-Purchase Review
Before making an offer, I review: roof age/condition, HVAC system age, electrical panel capacity (older homes may need 200-amp upgrade), plumbing condition, and foundation. This prevents costly surprises!
🎯 Bottom Line for Johnston Buyers
Johnston homes are generally very insurable with competitive rates. Budget $1,200-$1,800/year for insurance. Pay extra attention to older homes (1970s-1980s) — verify major systems have been updated or budget for replacements. My insurance expertise helps you negotiate seller credits for needed updates.
Johnston Homes for Sale
Current listings in Johnston's family-friendly neighborhoods
🏠 Find Your Johnston Home
Browse current Johnston listings or get personalized recommendations for your family.
Search Johnston HomesReady to Join the Johnston Community?
Let Sarah help you find the perfect home in this top-rated school district
Sarah Ingles
Your Johnston real estate expert. I help families navigate the competitive Johnston market and use my property insurance background to identify potential issues before they become problems.
Sarah Ingles, Realtor® SRES®
Smart Move Des Moines
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