I’ve been analyzing data from the Zillow Home Value Index, and Iowa’s housing market reveals some fascinating patterns across its most valuable neighborhoods. What caught my attention is how consistently these communities have appreciated over 15 years, with many seeing 60-90% growth since 2010.
Des Moines and Iowa City stand out as hotspots for property value appreciation, with neighborhoods in these cities claiming 7 of the top 10 spots. Remarkably, some less publicized areas like Salisbury Oaks and Ingersoll Park have nearly doubled in value since 2010, outperforming the state and national averages.
When you look at the five-year growth trends, you’ll notice even pandemic-era market shifts didn’t slow the momentum in these prime neighborhoods, with most continuing to appreciate 25-39% between 2020 and 2025. These aren’t just homes – they’re wealth-building machines hidden in America’s heartland.
25. Washington Hills
- 2025 Home Value: $305,979
- 2020 Home Value: $235,721
- 2015 Home Value: $193,258
- 2010 Home Value: $180,855
- % Change (2010–2025): 69.2%
- % Change (2015–2025): 58.3%
- % Change (2020–2025): 29.8%
You’re looking at Washington Hills, a financial success story that’s quietly accumulated nearly 70% in property value since 2010 – averaging 4.6% annual growth over 15 years. The most impressive acceleration happened between 2015-2025, where values increased at a faster 5.8% annual rate. Located in Iowa City’s academic corridor within Johnson County, this neighborhood has capitalized on the university’s stable economy to deliver consistent returns to homeowners despite market fluctuations.
24. Peninsula Area
- 2025 Home Value: $306,234
- 2020 Home Value: $253,671
- 2015 Home Value: $232,441
- 2010 Home Value: $209,462
- % Change (2010–2025): 46.2%
- % Change (2015–2025): 31.7%
- % Change (2020–2025): 20.7%
You’re looking at Peninsula Area, where investment returns have been remarkably steady with 46.2% appreciation over 15 years, though slightly underperforming Iowa’s top-tier markets. The growth pattern shows moderation – 3.1% annual increases since 2010, with a slight acceleration to 4.1% annually over the last five years. This established Iowa City neighborhood borders the Iowa River in Johnson County, offering water proximity that continues to command premium pricing despite its more measured growth trajectory.
23. Brooks Run
- 2025 Home Value: $309,824
- 2020 Home Value: $225,857
- 2015 Home Value: $178,295
- 2010 Home Value: $170,229
- % Change (2010–2025): 82.0%
- % Change (2015–2025): 73.8%
- % Change (2020–2025): 37.2%
You’re looking at Brooks Run, a financial powerhouse that has delivered an exceptional 82% return on investment since 2010 – translating to 5.5% compound annual growth over 15 years. The neighborhood’s appreciation accelerated dramatically post-2015, with the strongest growth rate (7.4% annually) occurring during the past five years despite market challenges. Nestled in Des Moines’ expanding northern sector within Polk County, Brooks Run exemplifies how strategic suburban positioning can generate outsized returns in Iowa’s capital region.
22. McClellan Heights
- 2025 Home Value: $312,149
- 2020 Home Value: $250,699
- 2015 Home Value: $221,659
- 2010 Home Value: $206,199
- % Change (2010–2025): 51.4%
- % Change (2015–2025): 40.8%
- % Change (2020–2025): 24.5%
You’re looking at McClellan Heights, where property investments have yielded a solid 51.4% appreciation since 2010, averaging 3.4% annually over fifteen years. The growth timeline reveals consistency rather than volatility, with the most recent five-year period showing healthy 4.9% annual increases despite broader economic uncertainties. Situated in Davenport along the Mississippi River within Scott County, this established neighborhood benefits from river views and historic architecture that continue attracting buyer premium in eastern Iowa’s competitive market.
21. Somerset Village
- 2025 Home Value: $314,369
- 2020 Home Value: $292,089
- 2015 Home Value: $236,864
- 2010 Home Value: $219,791
- % Change (2010–2025): 43.0%
- % Change (2015–2025): 32.7%
- % Change (2020–2025): 7.6%
You’re looking at Somerset Village, where the investment story shows two distinct chapters – robust 33% growth from 2010-2020 followed by more modest 7.6% appreciation in the last five years, averaging just 1.5% annually since 2020. This significant slowdown signals potential market maturity or changing buyer preferences affecting valuation momentum. Positioned in Ames near Iowa State University within Story County, Somerset Village represents how college town real estate can experience growth plateaus even while maintaining relatively high baseline values.
20. Morningslde-Glendale
- 2025 Home Value: $322,997
- 2020 Home Value: $251,207
- 2015 Home Value: $215,525
- 2010 Home Value: $200,288
- % Change (2010–2025): 61.3%
- % Change (2015–2025): 49.9%
- % Change (2020–2025): 28.6%
You’re looking at Morningslde-Glendale, a financial winner delivering 61.3% returns since 2010, which translates to a steady 4.1% annual appreciation rate over fifteen years. The neighborhood has maintained remarkably consistent growth across all measurement periods, with the last five years showing a slight acceleration to 5.7% annually despite market headwinds. Nestled in Iowa City’s eastern sector within Johnson County, this established community demonstrates how proximity to the University of Iowa Medical complex creates persistent demand regardless of broader economic conditions.
19. Arbor Peaks
- 2025 Home Value: $324,543
- 2020 Home Value: $252,036
- 2015 Home Value: $210,566
- 2010 Home Value: $205,520
- % Change (2010–2025): 57.9%
- % Change (2015–2025): 54.1%
- % Change (2020–2025): 28.8%
You’re looking at Arbor Peaks, where the financial trajectory reveals an interesting pattern – minimal growth from 2010-2015 (just 2.5%) followed by explosive 54.1% appreciation over the next decade, averaging 5.4% annually since 2015. This late-blooming investment gem has delivered 28.8% returns in just the last five years despite challenging market conditions. Located in Des Moines’ western suburbs within Polk County, Arbor Peaks demonstrates how previously overlooked neighborhoods can suddenly accelerate in value when development patterns and buyer preferences align.
18. Shimek
- 2025 Home Value: $328,201
- 2020 Home Value: $254,513
- 2015 Home Value: $215,015
- 2010 Home Value: $201,024
- % Change (2010–2025): 63.3%
- % Change (2015–2025): 52.6%
- % Change (2020–2025): 29.0%
You’re looking at Shimek, a financial standout that’s delivered 63.3% appreciation since 2010, maintaining a consistent 4.2% annual growth rate over fifteen years. The property value acceleration has been most pronounced recently, with 29% gains (5.8% annually) during the past five years despite broader market challenges. Nestled in Iowa City’s prestigious northern corridor within Johnson County, Shimek benefits from its proximity to both the university and the highly-rated Shimek Elementary School catchment area, driving sustained premium valuations from family homebuyers.
17. Greenwood
- 2025 Home Value: $331,169
- 2020 Home Value: $254,580
- 2015 Home Value: $197,386
- 2010 Home Value: $187,567
- % Change (2010–2025): 76.6%
- % Change (2015–2025): 67.8%
- % Change (2020–2025): 30.1%
You’re looking at Greenwood, where investment returns have been exceptional – 76.6% appreciation since 2010, averaging 5.1% annually over fifteen years. The growth pattern shows acceleration, with minimal gains from 2010-2015 followed by dramatic 67.8% appreciation over the next decade, including robust 30.1% returns since 2020. Located in Des Moines’ historic district within Polk County, Greenwood exemplifies urban renewal success where property values have surged as historic homes are restored and neighborhood amenities multiply, creating a financial windfall for early investors.
16. Ingersoll Park
- 2025 Home Value: $332,748
- 2020 Home Value: $244,389
- 2015 Home Value: $188,645
- 2010 Home Value: $172,640
- % Change (2010–2025): 92.7%
- % Change (2015–2025): 76.4%
- % Change (2020–2025): 36.2%
You’re looking at Ingersoll Park, a veritable investment gold mine that’s nearly doubled in value since 2010 – delivering an astounding 92.7% return (6.2% annually) over fifteen years. The appreciation has been consistently strong across all measurement periods, with the most recent five years showing exceptional 36.2% gains despite market headwinds. Situated in Des Moines’ revitalized urban core within Polk County, Ingersoll Park demonstrates how proximity to the expanding Ingersoll Avenue commercial corridor has transformed once-overlooked properties into some of Iowa’s best-performing real estate assets.
15. Bloomington Heights
- 2025 Home Value: $339,606
- 2020 Home Value: $256,107
- 2015 Home Value: $223,517
- 2010 Home Value: $197,270
- % Change (2010–2025): 72.2%
- % Change (2015–2025): 51.9%
- % Change (2020–2025): 32.6%
You’re looking at Bloomington Heights, where property investment has yielded impressive 72.2% appreciation since 2010, averaging 4.8% annually over fifteen years. The growth pattern shows acceleration, with modest 13.3% gains from 2010-2015 followed by stronger 51.9% returns over the next decade, including robust 32.6% appreciation just since 2020. Positioned in Ames’ northern section within Story County, Bloomington Heights benefits from Iowa State University’s expanding research park and the area’s tech corridor growth, driving demand from higher-income professionals.
14. Bryn Mawr Heights
- 2025 Home Value: $340,127
- 2020 Home Value: $259,646
- 2015 Home Value: $223,084
- 2010 Home Value: $207,293
- % Change (2010–2025): 64.1%
- % Change (2015–2025): 52.5%
- % Change (2020–2025): 31.0%
You’re looking at Bryn Mawr Heights, where investments have appreciated a healthy 64.1% since 2010, maintaining a steady 4.3% annual growth rate over fifteen years. The neighborhood’s value trajectory accelerated significantly after 2015, with 52.5% appreciation in the decade since, including an impressive 31% gain just since 2020 despite broader market challenges. Nestled in Iowa City’s northwest quadrant within Johnson County, Bryn Mawr Heights leverages its elevated topography and larger lot sizes to command premium pricing from professionals seeking proximity to the university medical complex.
13. Southwestern Hills
- 2025 Home Value: $340,479
- 2020 Home Value: $250,685
- 2015 Home Value: $192,412
- 2010 Home Value: $184,502
- % Change (2010–2025): 84.5%
- % Change (2015–2025): 77.0%
- % Change (2020–2025): 35.8%
You’re looking at Southwestern Hills, a financial powerhouse delivering 84.5% appreciation since 2010, averaging an impressive 5.6% annual growth over fifteen years. The investment timeline reveals minimal early growth followed by explosive 77% gains since 2015, including 35.8% appreciation in just the last five years despite broader market headwinds. Located in Des Moines’ expanding southwestern corridor within Polk County, this neighborhood exemplifies how strategic positioning near the metro’s growth vector can create outsized returns compared to Iowa’s already strong housing market.
12. Bluffwood
- 2025 Home Value: $350,225
- 2020 Home Value: $281,222
- 2015 Home Value: $265,943
- 2010 Home Value: $249,279
- % Change (2010–2025): 40.5%
- % Change (2015–2025): 31.7%
- % Change (2020–2025): 24.5%
You’re looking at Bluffwood, where investment returns have been more moderate – 40.5% appreciation since 2010, averaging 2.7% annually over fifteen years. The growth pattern shows interesting phases: minimal 6.7% gains from 2010-2015, modest 5.7% from 2015-2020, then accelerating to 24.5% in just the last five years as luxury buyers discovered its value. Perched along scenic bluffs in Iowa City within Johnson County, Bluffwood’s topography creates unique views that increasingly command premium pricing, explaining the recent acceleration despite its more established status.
11. Westwood
- 2025 Home Value: $360,696
- 2020 Home Value: $279,304
- 2015 Home Value: $211,771
- 2010 Home Value: $186,687
- % Change (2010–2025): 93.2%
- % Change (2015–2025): 70.3%
- % Change (2020–2025): 29.1%
You’re looking at Westwood, an investment home run that’s nearly doubled in value since 2010 – delivering exceptional 93.2% appreciation, averaging 6.2% annually over fifteen years. The growth trajectory shows remarkable consistency across all measurement periods, with the neighborhood maintaining its momentum despite market fluctuations and achieving 29.1% gains since 2020. Located in Des Moines’ western corridor within Polk County, Westwood exemplifies how proximity to expanding employment centers and revitalized urban amenities creates sustained value appreciation exceeding both state and national averages.
10. Stone Brooke
- 2025 Home Value: $369,303
- 2020 Home Value: $296,450
- 2015 Home Value: N/A
- 2010 Home Value: N/A
- % Change (2010–2025): N/A
- % Change (2015–2025): N/A
- % Change (2020–2025): 24.6%
You’re looking at Stone Brooke, a newer investment opportunity that’s delivered strong 24.6% appreciation since 2020, averaging 4.9% annually during a period of broader market uncertainty. While historical data before 2020 isn’t available, the neighborhood’s recent performance places it among Iowa’s top performers for five-year growth. Situated in Ames’ western expansion zone within Story County, Stone Brooke represents the newer generation of planned communities where coordinated development and amenity packages help maintain value premiums despite its relative youth in the market.
9. Melrose
- 2025 Home Value: $373,155
- 2020 Home Value: $296,280
- 2015 Home Value: $250,891
- 2010 Home Value: $225,294
- % Change (2010–2025): 65.6%
- % Change (2015–2025): 48.7%
- % Change (2020–2025): 25.9%
You’re looking at Melrose, where property investments have appreciated 65.6% since 2010, maintaining a steady 4.4% annual growth rate over fifteen years. The value acceleration has been remarkably consistent across all measurement periods, with the neighborhood delivering 25.9% returns since 2020 despite challenging market conditions. Located in Iowa City’s desirable western corridor within Johnson County, Melrose benefits from its strategic position between the university campus and the expanding medical complex, creating sustained demand from both academic professionals and healthcare workers.
8. Top-O-Hollow
- 2025 Home Value: $405,127
- 2020 Home Value: $312,689
- 2015 Home Value: N/A
- 2010 Home Value: N/A
- % Change (2010–2025): N/A
- % Change (2015–2025): N/A
- % Change (2020–2025): 29.6%
You’re looking at Top-O-Hollow, a relatively recent investment opportunity that’s delivered impressive 29.6% appreciation since 2020, averaging 5.9% annually despite broader market uncertainties. Though historical data before 2020 isn’t available, this neighborhood’s recent performance places it in the top tier of Iowa’s five-year growth leaders. Positioned in Ames’ northern section within Story County, Top-O-Hollow capitalizes on its elevated topography providing scenic views and its proximity to Iowa State University research facilities, attracting high-income professionals and academics.
7. Waterbury
- 2025 Home Value: $421,158
- 2020 Home Value: $309,289
- 2015 Home Value: $244,213
- 2010 Home Value: $223,061
- % Change (2010–2025): 88.8%
- % Change (2015–2025): 72.5%
- % Change (2020–2025): 36.2%
You’re looking at Waterbury, a financial juggernaut that’s generated 88.8% appreciation since 2010, averaging an impressive 5.9% annual growth over fifteen years. The investment timeline shows consistent acceleration, with 72.5% gains in the past decade and an exceptional 36.2% return just since 2020 despite broader market challenges. Nestled in Des Moines’ historic district within Polk County, Waterbury represents the pinnacle of urban revival where classic Tudor and Colonial Revival architecture commands increasing premiums from high-income professionals seeking established prestige with modern amenities.
6. Windsor Ridge
- 2025 Home Value: $425,380
- 2020 Home Value: $322,568
- 2015 Home Value: $279,290
- 2010 Home Value: $265,116
- % Change (2010–2025): 60.5%
- % Change (2015–2025): 52.3%
- % Change (2020–2025): 31.9%
You’re looking at Windsor Ridge, where property investments have appreciated 60.5% since 2010, averaging a steady 4% annual growth rate over fifteen years. The value trajectory shows interesting phasing – minimal 5.3% gains from 2010-2015, followed by accelerating returns that culminated in 31.9% appreciation just since 2020 despite broader market headwinds. Located in Iowa City’s prestigious eastern corridor within Johnson County, Windsor Ridge benefits from larger lot sizes and custom home designs that continue attracting university administrators and medical professionals willing to pay premium prices for luxury finishes.
5. Audobon
- 2025 Home Value: $437,700
- 2020 Home Value: $350,299
- 2015 Home Value: $332,772
- 2010 Home Value: $308,094
- % Change (2010–2025): 42.1%
- % Change (2015–2025): 31.5%
- % Change (2020–2025): 25.0%
You’re looking at Audobon, where investments have yielded more moderate 42.1% returns since 2010, averaging 2.8% annually over fifteen years. The appreciation timeline reveals interesting phases – very slow 8% growth from 2010-2015, minimal 5.3% from 2015-2020, then accelerating to 25% in just the last five years. Situated in Waterloo’s prestigious eastern section within Black Hawk County, Audobon represents an established luxury enclave where larger lots and proximity to golf courses maintain value even during Iowa’s housing market fluctuations.
4. Salisbury Oaks
- 2025 Home Value: $459,957
- 2020 Home Value: $354,368
- 2015 Home Value: $264,318
- 2010 Home Value: $236,530
- % Change (2010–2025): 94.5%
- % Change (2015–2025): 74.0%
- % Change (2020–2025): 29.8%
You’re looking at Salisbury Oaks, a financial powerhouse that’s nearly doubled in value – delivering remarkable 94.5% appreciation since 2010, averaging 6.3% annually over fifteen years. The growth trajectory shows consistent acceleration across all periods with minimal slowdown, including impressive 29.8% returns since 2020 despite challenging market conditions. Located in Des Moines’ affluent western suburbs within Polk County, Salisbury Oaks exemplifies how mature tree canopy, architectural consistency, and proximity to expanding commercial corridors creates sustained value increases exceeding both state and national benchmarks.
3. Galway Hills
- 2025 Home Value: $462,381
- 2020 Home Value: $348,225
- 2015 Home Value: $311,641
- 2010 Home Value: $296,545
- % Change (2010–2025): 55.9%
- % Change (2015–2025): 48.4%
- % Change (2020–2025): 32.8%
You’re looking at Galway Hills, where property investments have appreciated 55.9% since 2010, averaging 3.7% annual growth over fifteen years. The financial story shows modest early gains followed by accelerating returns, with 48.4% appreciation since 2015 and robust 32.8% growth just since 2020 despite broader market headwinds. Nestled in Iowa City’s northern corridor within Johnson County, Galway Hills leverages its elevated topography and larger lots to maintain premium pricing, attracting university executives and medical professionals seeking exclusivity with convenient access to campus.
2. Northridge
- 2025 Home Value: $474,920
- 2020 Home Value: $380,977
- 2015 Home Value: $343,646
- 2010 Home Value: $319,317
- % Change (2010–2025): 48.7%
- % Change (2015–2025): 38.2%
- % Change (2020–2025): 24.7%
You’re looking at Northridge, where investments have yielded 48.7% appreciation since 2010, averaging a moderate 3.2% annual growth over fifteen years. The value progression reveals interesting phasing – minimal 7.6% gains from 2010-2015, moderate 10.9% from 2015-2020, then accelerating to 24.7% in just the last five years despite market challenges. Situated in Ames’ prestigious northern section within Story County, Northridge combines larger lot sizes with proximity to Iowa State University research facilities, attracting high-income academics and professionals from the expanding tech corridor.
1. Linden Heights
- 2025 Home Value: $775,246
- 2020 Home Value: $557,923
- 2015 Home Value: $464,542
- 2010 Home Value: $408,816
- % Change (2010–2025): 89.6%
- % Change (2015–2025): 66.9%
- % Change (2020–2025): 39.0%
You’re looking at Linden Heights, Iowa’s undisputed real estate champion commanding a staggering $775,246 average home value – nearly double its 2010 valuation with 89.6% appreciation over fifteen years. The investment performance shows remarkable consistency and acceleration, with 66.9% gains since 2015 and exceptional 39% returns in just the last five years despite nationwide market challenges. Perched on Des Moines’ most prestigious hillside within Polk County, Linden Heights represents the pinnacle of Iowa luxury real estate where historic mansions, mature landscaping, and exclusivity continue driving unprecedented appreciation.
