Des Moines metro, IA relocation guide
Moving to Johnston, IA
$425,000Median listing price
PolkArea
Commuter-friendlyCommute profile
About Johnston
Johnston (pop. ~25,300 in 2026 per worldpopulationreview.com, Polk County) is a northwestern suburb that grew from farming roots into one of the metro's communities, known for abundant green space. It's home to Camp Dodge, the Iowa Army National Guard's major training installation, and features an extensive park system.
Home prices in Johnston
The median listing price in Johnston is $425,000.
Top places in Johnston
- Terra Lake / Terra Park
- Beaver Creek
- Camp Dodge
- Kites on the Green Festival
- Johnston Farmers Market (June–September) and Yard Summer Concert Series.
- Johnston Town Center
- Paul J. and Ida Trier House
Commuting from Johnston
- Drive to downtown Des Moines: ~15 minutes southeast via I-35/I-80 or Merle Hay Road (approximately 8–10 miles).
- Transit: DART bus service connects Johnston to downtown Des Moines.
- Camp Dodge and the northwest corporate corridor keep many jobs local.
Schools in Johnston
Public schools: Johnston Community School District. For enrollment and performance data, see the state report card in Town links below. Confirm school assignment for any address directly with the district.
Johnston FAQs
- What is the housing market like in Johnston, IA?
The median listing price in Johnston is $425,000. Median listing price · Realtor.com · September 25, 2026 - How is the commute from Johnston, IA?
Drive to downtown Des Moines: ~15 minutes southeast via I-35/I-80 or Merle Hay Road (approximately 8–10 miles). - Which school district serves Johnston, IA?
Johnston is served by Johnston Community School District. See the state report card in Town links, and confirm school assignment for a specific address with the district.
Town links
Schools
Transit
Official town resources. School report cards via the National Center for Education Statistics.