Clive, IA

Clive sits right in the middle of the western Des Moines metro, stretching across both Polk and Dallas counties. It functions like a peaceful residential bridge between classic Des Moines suburbs and the rapid growth out in Waukee. On the east side, you will find well-established neighborhoods with mature shade trees, apartment communities, and local businesses along 86th Street and Hickman Road. Heading west past Interstate 35/80, the scene shifts toward newer subdivisions, spacious townhomes, and quiet cul-de-sacs. Without a traditional downtown square of its own, Clive relies on neighboring West Des Moines, Urbandale, and downtown Des Moines for big dining spots, shopping centers, and major employers. Daily life here revolves around easy commutes, quiet streets, and convenient access to the entire metro.

ATTRTony Webster from Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States / CC BY-SA 2.0

The real centerpiece of the community is the Clive Greenbelt, a scenic wooded trail system following Walnut Creek right through the middle of town. On any nice afternoon, you will see neighbors out biking, walking dogs, or heading over to the Clive Aquatic Center and Campbell Recreation Area. The path connects directly to the larger central Iowa trail network, which is a major perk if you love cycling or running. Every summer, residents gather along the corridor for the Clive Festival to enjoy live music, food trucks, and fireworks. If you are looking at houses backing up to the creek, the wooded views and direct trail access are wonderful, though you should check the property's flood history and find out if flood insurance is required.

ATTRMax Goldberg from USA / CC BY 2.0

Clive started in the late nineteenth century as a small railroad stop shipping coal and agricultural goods along Walnut Creek. You can still see hints of that past near 86th Street at the restored depot and historic Swanson House. As the metro expanded through the late 1900s, Clive grew steadily westward, building residential pockets tucked around its park system. Most major commercial development stays along border corridors like University Avenue and Hickman Road, keeping neighborhood side streets calm. Running errands usually means crossing city lines into West Des Moines or Urbandale, but because the western suburbs blend together seamlessly, grabbing groceries or dinner only takes a few minutes.

ATTRMax Goldberg from USA / CC BY 2.0

When shopping for a home in Clive, your first step should be checking which side of the county line a property sits on. Homes on the eastern Polk County side generally feed into the West Des Moines school district, while addresses on the western Dallas County side attend Waukee schools. Property taxes and HOA dues can also vary between the two areas. If you like character, mid-century charm, and big trees, focus your search on the east end. If you prefer newer construction, open layouts, and attached garages, look west toward the newer developments. Spend a few minutes driving University, Hickman, and the interstate ramps during morning rush hour to get a genuine feel for the daily commute.