I’ve analyzed data from the Zillow Home Value Index to identify the Iowa neighborhoods that have experienced the most dramatic growth in home values over the past decade. The results reveal fascinating patterns across the state’s real estate landscape.
What struck me most was the concentration of high-growth neighborhoods in urban cores, particularly in Des Moines. These once-overlooked areas have transformed into hotspots for investment, with many neighborhoods seeing their property values double or even triple since 2016. This trend suggests a significant urban revitalization movement taking hold across Iowa’s cities.
I found it particularly interesting that many of these neighborhoods started with relatively modest home values under $60,000 in 2016, but have since appreciated at rates that far outpace state and national averages. This growth trajectory offers valuable insights for investors seeking emerging markets with continued upside potential.
25. Twin City
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 94.92%
- 2025: $204,564
- 2024: $192,314
- 2023: $175,564
- 2022: $161,314
- 2021: $147,647
- 2020: $134,342
- 2019: $122,541
- 2018: $114,009
- 2017: $108,198
- 2016: $104,947
Your investment in Twin City would have nearly doubled in value over this nine-year period, representing a remarkable 10.5% average annual return. The steady upward trajectory, without significant dips, signals a stable market with growing demand. For buyers, the consistent appreciation indicates strong long-term value, while sellers can leverage nearly $100,000 in equity gains. This well-established neighborhood continues to attract interest from homeowners seeking reliable appreciation.
24. Gates Park
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 95.03%
- 2025: $78,307
- 2024: $72,504
- 2023: $63,870
- 2022: $56,862
- 2021: $52,363
- 2020: $48,915
- 2019: $45,895
- 2018: $40,479
- 2017: $38,856
- 2016: $40,152
Gates Park represents an exceptional entry-level investment opportunity, with home values nearly doubling while still remaining highly affordable. Your initial investment would have generated approximately 10.6% annual returns, outpacing traditional investment vehicles. For first-time buyers, this neighborhood offers an accessible price point with proven appreciation potential. Located near recreational amenities, Gates Park continues to benefit from revitalization efforts that are driving sustained value growth.
23. ACCENT
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 98.49%
- 2025: $166,154
- 2024: $156,452
- 2023: $145,817
- 2022: $136,141
- 2021: $123,098
- 2020: $112,694
- 2019: $108,654
- 2018: $99,536
- 2017: $90,806
- 2016: $83,709
An investment in ACCENT would have delivered nearly 100% returns over nine years, effectively doubling your capital while providing substantial residential utility. The neighborhood demonstrates remarkable price resilience, with consistent year-over-year gains averaging 11% annually. For sellers, this represents a prime opportunity to capitalize on substantial equity accumulation. Situated in a desirable area with strong community appeal, ACCENT continues to attract buyers willing to pay premium prices.
22. Capitol View South
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 100.21%
- 2025: $138,632
- 2024: $142,168
- 2023: $128,953
- 2022: $140,453
- 2021: $136,631
- 2020: $119,891
- 2019: $110,936
- 2018: $99,132
- 2017: $83,708
- 2016: $69,242
Capitol View South has precisely doubled in value since 2016, though with some interesting price volatility in recent years that savvy investors should note. Your investment would have gained over $69,000 in equity, representing an 11.1% compound annual growth rate. The slight price correction in 2025 may present a strategic buying opportunity in this appreciating market. Positioned with excellent access to government facilities and downtown amenities, this neighborhood combines location advantages with proven value appreciation.
21. Downtown
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 100.28%
- 2025: $122,153
- 2024: $113,748
- 2023: $103,506
- 2022: $94,977
- 2021: $89,601
- 2020: $78,627
- 2019: $71,419
- 2018: $64,251
- 2017: $60,780
- 2016: $60,992
Your Downtown investment would have doubled exactly, providing both substantial equity growth and potential rental income in this urban core location. The acceleration in appreciation rates since 2020 suggests increasing demand that could continue to drive values upward. For investors, the relatively low entry point combined with urban renewal trends signals continued upside potential. This area benefits from walkability, amenities, and the growing preference for centrally-located housing options.
20. Gray’s Woods
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 100.72%
- 2025: $169,058
- 2024: $160,353
- 2023: $149,553
- 2022: $140,619
- 2021: $129,094
- 2020: $120,252
- 2019: $115,314
- 2018: $103,078
- 2017: $92,681
- 2016: $84,225
Gray’s Woods has delivered remarkable returns, with your investment doubling while maintaining steady appreciation without significant volatility. The consistent upward trajectory, averaging 11.2% annual growth, suggests a stable market with sustained demand. For homeowners, this represents over $84,000 in accumulated equity that could be leveraged for upgrades or investment diversification. This established neighborhood offers the ideal combination of stability and growth, making it attractive for both long-term residents and new buyers.
19. McKinley School – Columbus Park
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 101.81%
- 2025: $153,477
- 2024: $146,803
- 2023: $136,917
- 2022: $130,576
- 2021: $124,324
- 2020: $109,528
- 2019: $100,138
- 2018: $74,994
- 2017: $86,702
- 2016: $76,050
McKinley School – Columbus Park has more than doubled in value, though with some notable volatility in 2017-2018 that presents lessons for market timing. Your investment would have generated over $77,000 in equity, representing an impressive 11.3% annual appreciation rate. For buyers, the strong recovery and consistent gains since 2018 signal a resilient market with sustained growth potential. This revitalized area combines historic architecture with urban convenience, driving continued buyer interest.
18. Indianola Hills
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 102.78%
- 2025: $176,857
- 2024: $167,442
- 2023: $157,968
- 2022: $148,114
- 2021: $134,588
- 2020: $122,016
- 2019: $117,830
- 2018: $108,985
- 2017: $97,850
- 2016: $87,218
Indianola Hills has rewarded investors with returns exceeding 100%, creating nearly $90,000 in equity over this nine-year period. The exceptionally stable appreciation curve, without any annual declines, demonstrates strong market fundamentals and consistent buyer demand. For sellers, the current momentum suggests optimal timing to maximize returns on your investment. This established community offers hillside views and attractive surroundings that continue to drive premium valuations.
17. Union Park
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 102.94%
- 2025: $166,279
- 2024: $158,097
- 2023: $146,229
- 2022: $138,589
- 2021: $126,934
- 2020: $114,366
- 2019: $108,220
- 2018: $99,164
- 2017: $89,854
- 2016: $81,936
Union Park has delivered exceptional investment performance, with values more than doubling and providing over $84,000 in accumulated equity. The smooth, consistent growth pattern indicates a stable market with reliable demand and minimal speculative volatility. For homebuyers, this trend suggests continued appreciation potential with reduced downside risk compared to more volatile neighborhoods. This family-friendly area benefits from park amenities and community facilities that support long-term value retention.
16. Highland Park
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 103.53%
- 2025: $162,956
- 2024: $154,056
- 2023: $142,427
- 2022: $133,024
- 2021: $121,275
- 2020: $111,313
- 2019: $105,523
- 2018: $98,230
- 2017: $88,896
- 2016: $80,064
Highland Park has more than doubled your investment value, creating over $82,000 in equity while maintaining remarkably consistent year-over-year growth. The steady 11.5% annual appreciation rate outperforms most traditional investment vehicles while providing housing utility. For both buyers and sellers, the data indicates a healthy, balanced market with sustainable momentum. This historic neighborhood combines architectural character with urban convenience, driving continued demand from discerning homebuyers.
15. Oak Park
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 107.73%
- 2025: $171,359
- 2024: $160,497
- 2023: $148,182
- 2022: $140,715
- 2021: $128,706
- 2020: $117,583
- 2019: $111,994
- 2018: $103,452
- 2017: $93,435
- 2016: $82,489
Oak Park has generated exceptional returns, with property values more than doubling and creating nearly $89,000 in equity over nine years. The consistently strong 12% annual appreciation rate suggests powerful market fundamentals driving sustained demand. For investors, this neighborhood demonstrates the wealth-building potential of strategic real estate positioning. Located in a mature area with established tree canopy and attractive streetscapes, Oak Park continues to command premium valuations.
14. Garton West
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 109.71%
- 2025: $171,709
- 2024: $158,958
- 2023: $145,827
- 2022: $133,485
- 2021: $124,464
- 2020: $111,562
- 2019: $103,376
- 2018: $96,511
- 2017: $88,270
- 2016: $81,877
Garton West has rewarded property owners with more than 109% appreciation, effectively more than doubling investment capital while providing housing utility. The accelerating growth rates in recent years suggest increasing market momentum that could drive further gains. For buyers, the strong fundamentals indicate continued appreciation potential despite the significant gains already realized. This evolving neighborhood has transformed from an overlooked area to a sought-after community with strong buyer competition.
13. River Bend
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 116.31%
- 2025: $157,912
- 2024: $151,373
- 2023: $140,253
- 2022: $133,277
- 2021: $119,821
- 2020: $106,382
- 2019: $109,566
- 2018: $98,170
- 2017: $86,717
- 2016: $73,003
River Bend has delivered exceptional investment performance, with values more than doubling and generating an impressive 12.9% compound annual growth rate. The minor price correction in 2020 proved temporary, with strong recovery demonstrating market resilience. For investors, the consistently strong appreciation, even through economic fluctuations, signals robust underlying demand. This riverfront neighborhood benefits from water proximity and scenic views that command premium pricing.
12. Sherman Hill
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 122.54%
- 2025: $275,242
- 2024: $270,286
- 2023: $269,404
- 2022: $242,211
- 2021: $211,482
- 2020: $188,922
- 2019: $181,114
- 2018: $164,135
- 2017: $146,620
- 2016: $123,680
Sherman Hill stands out with exceptional appreciation exceeding 122%, creating over $151,000 in equity—the largest absolute gain on this list. The premium starting values and continued strong growth indicate a premier neighborhood with enduring appeal. For sellers, the current market represents optimal timing with prices stabilizing near peak levels. This historic district features distinctive architecture and urban character that continues to attract affluent buyers seeking unique properties.
11. Capitol East
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 126.37%
- 2025: $123,665
- 2024: $121,755
- 2023: $108,429
- 2022: $104,029
- 2021: $94,132
- 2020: $79,192
- 2019: $74,523
- 2018: $67,813
- 2017: $63,866
- 2016: $54,631
Capitol East exemplifies transformative investment potential, more than doubling in value from a modest entry point to create over $69,000 in equity. The 14% average annual return significantly outpaces traditional investment vehicles, demonstrating the power of strategic real estate positioning. For buyers, the relatively affordable current pricing combined with strong growth trajectory suggests continued upside potential. This revitalizing area benefits from proximity to government facilities and ongoing community reinvestment.
10. Laurel Hill
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 127.97%
- 2025: $142,741
- 2024: $136,696
- 2023: $127,311
- 2022: $127,013
- 2021: $117,577
- 2020: $107,072
- 2019: $98,632
- 2018: $85,547
- 2017: $75,789
- 2016: $62,613
Laurel Hill has delivered remarkable 128% returns, more than doubling initial investment value while offering substantial housing utility throughout the ownership period. Your property would have gained approximately $80,000 in equity, representing a powerful 14.2% annual appreciation rate. The consistent growth, particularly strong since 2018, indicates robust market fundamentals driving sustained demand. This elevated neighborhood offers attractive topography and views that continue to command premium pricing.
9. Capitol Park
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 129.89%
- 2025: $142,843
- 2024: $136,277
- 2023: $121,282
- 2022: $115,595
- 2021: $105,861
- 2020: $93,734
- 2019: $87,708
- 2018: $81,631
- 2017: $73,188
- 2016: $62,135
Capitol Park demonstrates exceptional investment performance with nearly 130% appreciation, translating to an impressive 14.4% compound annual growth rate. Your initial investment would have gained over $80,000 in equity while providing housing utility throughout the ownership period. For buyers, the strong momentum suggests continued appreciation potential despite significant gains already realized. This centrally-located neighborhood benefits from governmental proximity and urban renewal initiatives that continue to drive values upward.
8. Fairground
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 135.32%
- 2025: $142,799
- 2024: $134,207
- 2023: $119,888
- 2022: $110,893
- 2021: $101,674
- 2020: $91,318
- 2019: $83,767
- 2018: $76,890
- 2017: $69,550
- 2016: $60,684
Fairground has rewarded investors with exceptional 135% returns, transforming modest starter homes into substantial equity positions exceeding $82,000. The remarkably consistent appreciation curve, showing steady gains averaging 15% annually, indicates strong market fundamentals without speculative volatility. For homebuyers, this combination of affordable entry pricing with proven appreciation potential creates an ideal investment opportunity. This evolving neighborhood benefits from proximity to event facilities and improving community amenities.
7. M.L. King Jr. Park
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 143.88%
- 2025: $143,151
- 2024: $138,318
- 2023: $124,876
- 2022: $117,193
- 2021: $109,213
- 2020: $94,243
- 2019: $88,927
- 2018: $79,828
- 2017: $70,989
- 2016: $58,697
M.L. King Jr. Park exemplifies transformative investment potential, with nearly 144% appreciation creating over $84,000 in equity from a modest entry point. The accelerating growth in recent years indicates increasing market momentum that could drive further gains. For investors, the combination of affordable price points with exceptional returns creates compelling wealth-building opportunities. This rejuvenated neighborhood benefits from park amenities and community investment that continue to enhance its appeal.
6. Kirkwood Glen
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 160.02%
- 2025: $157,031
- 2024: $147,821
- 2023: $133,728
- 2022: $124,462
- 2021: $113,357
- 2020: $91,659
- 2019: $90,925
- 2018: $82,738
- 2017: $68,601
- 2016: $60,391
Kirkwood Glen has delivered extraordinary 160% returns, with property values more than 2.5 times their 2016 levels, creating nearly $97,000 in equity. The dramatic acceleration post-2020 suggests a neighborhood experiencing transformative revitalization that could continue driving values upward. For buyers, the strong momentum indicates continued appreciation potential despite the impressive gains already realized. This evolving community combines affordability with exceptional growth potential, making it ideal for strategic investors.
5. Mondamin Presidential
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 174.23%
- 2025: $130,922
- 2024: $124,611
- 2023: $109,089
- 2022: $106,657
- 2021: $95,248
- 2020: $79,862
- 2019: $73,861
- 2018: $64,608
- 2017: $59,043
- 2016: $47,742
Mondamin Presidential demonstrates remarkable transformation, with homes nearly tripling in value and generating over $83,000 in equity from extremely affordable starting prices. The exceptional 19.4% compound annual growth rate far outpaces traditional investment vehicles, highlighting the wealth-building potential of strategic real estate positioning. For buyers, the relatively low current price point combined with strong momentum creates an exceptional value proposition. This revitalized historic district combines architectural character with dramatic appreciation potential.
4. Chesterfield
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 179.41%
- 2025: $157,551
- 2024: $147,195
- 2023: $130,549
- 2022: $130,506
- 2021: $119,498
- 2020: $105,952
- 2019: $91,507
- 2018: $75,783
- 2017: $66,814
- 2016: $56,388
Chesterfield has delivered extraordinary investment performance, with properties nearly tripling in value and generating approximately $101,000 in equity over nine years. The exceptional 19.9% annual appreciation rate demonstrates the transformative potential of strategic neighborhood selection. For investors, the relatively affordable current price point combined with established growth trajectory creates compelling upside potential. This revitalized community has evolved from an overlooked area to a highly desirable neighborhood with sustained buyer demand.
3. King Irving
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 183.58%
- 2025: $137,730
- 2024: $127,130
- 2023: $114,798
- 2022: $109,130
- 2021: $94,655
- 2020: $82,088
- 2019: $77,120
- 2018: $69,465
- 2017: $60,797
- 2016: $48,569
King Irving has undergone remarkable transformation, with property values nearly tripling and generating approximately $89,000 in equity from extremely modest starting prices. The extraordinary 20.4% annual appreciation rate significantly outperforms virtually all traditional investment vehicles. For strategic investors, the still-affordable price point combined with established growth momentum presents exceptional wealth-building potential. This evolving neighborhood exemplifies the opportunity in identifying undervalued communities poised for revitalization.
2. Good Park
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 197.86%
- 2025: $148,687
- 2024: $136,859
- 2023: $124,483
- 2022: $115,425
- 2021: $104,646
- 2020: $85,186
- 2019: $82,207
- 2018: $71,380
- 2017: $59,652
- 2016: $49,918
Good Park exemplifies exceptional investment potential, with property values nearly tripling and generating almost $99,000 in equity from modest starting prices. The extraordinary 22% annual appreciation rate demonstrates the wealth-creation power of identifying emerging neighborhoods. For buyers, the current price point still offers value compared to similar areas, suggesting continued upside potential. This transformative neighborhood has benefited from park proximity and community reinvestment that continues to drive buyer interest.
1. New Vision
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 214.99%
- 2025: $140,058
- 2024: $130,726
- 2023: $116,009
- 2022: $108,130
- 2021: $96,732
- 2020: $81,634
- 2019: $75,693
- 2018: $64,642
- 2017: $54,257
- 2016: $44,464
New Vision stands as Iowa’s premier real estate investment opportunity, with property values more than tripling and generating over $95,000 in equity from extremely accessible starting prices. The extraordinary 23.9% average annual return dramatically outperforms virtually all alternative investments. For strategic buyers, even the current price point represents value considering the established growth trajectory and neighborhood transformation. This revitalized community exemplifies the potential of identifying undervalued areas before broader market recognition.
