If you’re considering a move to Des Moines and are searching for a neighborhood that blends charming homes, leafy streets, a family-friendly atmosphere, and strong community spirit, Linden Heights deserves a spot at the top of your list. Tucked into the southwestern pocket of the city and bordered by Grand Avenue to the north, 56th Street to the west, and Polk Boulevard to the east, Linden Heights is beloved by its residents for its historic appeal and neighborly vibe. Here’s what it’s really like to live in Linden Heights, as told by someone who calls it home.
A Welcoming Community Vibe
Move to Linden Heights, and you’ll quickly notice people look out for one another. This is a neighborhood where folks wave from their porches, host block parties, and stop to chat during dog walks. The community leans toward long-term residents, with many families staying for decades and newcomers quickly feeling welcomed. Events like the annual Linden Heights Neighborhood Picnic and spring garden cleanups at the corner of 56th and Linden Drive keep that neighborly feeling alive.
It’s the type of place where you’ll see kids playing tag in front yards, neighbors exchanging homegrown tomatoes, and residents coming together for charity garage sales. Most people here say that friendly faces and a sense of belonging are what drew them in—and what keeps them here.
Unique and Classic Housing Options
One of Linden Heights’ biggest draws is its gorgeous and varied architecture. Turn onto Woodlawn Drive, Linden Drive, or Chamberlain Avenue, and you’ll be treated to street after street of stately, well-maintained homes that harken back to the neighborhood’s early 20th-century roots.
- Housing ranges from grand Tudor Revivals and cozy Cape Cods to sturdy brick Colonials and charming mid-century ranches.
- Many homes feature original hardwood floors, built-in cabinets, fireplaces, and large yards shaded by mature oaks and maples.
- While most residences are single-family homes, there are the occasional duplexes or smaller apartment complexes peppered near Ingersoll Avenue, offering options for a range of budgets.
- Homes here don’t come on the market often, but when they do, they usually sell quickly—testament to how much people love living here.
Walkability and Convenience
Linden Heights enjoys a comfortable level of walkability, though the rolling hills can mean a bit of a workout. Sidewalks line most streets, and it’s common to see residents out for evening strolls or morning runs, especially along Linden Drive or Polk Boulevard.
- Daily errands are manageable on foot or a short drive: Hy-Vee at 42nd and University is just minutes away, and the shops and restaurants of Ingersoll Avenue—like Palmer’s Deli or the ever-popular Sakari Sushi—are within walking or biking distance.
- Grand Avenue provides a direct east-west route by car or bike, making it easy to access other neighborhoods or head downtown.
Schools and Family-Friendliness
For families, Linden Heights is a particularly attractive choice due to its access to top-rated schools and kid-friendly amenities. The neighborhood is located within the Des Moines Public Schools district, with beloved institutions like Hubbell Elementary nearby (just east on Polk Boulevard), and Roosevelt High School a quick drive up Forest Avenue.
- Playgrounds and recreational programs draw local kids together year-round.
- Proximity to Des Moines University, just off 31st Street, adds a scholarly influence and extra layers of educational activity for families.
Parents will tell you that the neighborhood PTA and frequent school fundraisers are a chance not just to support the kids, but to deepen community ties as well.
Parks and Green Spaces
Living in Linden Heights means you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to enjoying the outdoors. The sprawling Ashworth Park is the crown jewel here, with its beautiful trails, pond, and picnic areas. Just a five-minute walk across 56th Street, it’s a frequent hangout for dog walkers, joggers, and weekend barbecues.
- Greenwood Park and the Des Moines Art Center—complete with Sculpture Park—are also nearby, offering art lovers and families a one-of-a-kind local escape.
- Small pocket parks within the neighborhood, such as the play area at the corner of 58th and Chamberlain, give kids plenty of room to roam.
Gardens and well-manicured lawns are a point of pride, and you’ll often see neighbors chatting while tending their flowers or watching the sunset from their porch swings.
Safety and Peace of Mind
Residents consistently cite safety as one of the top reasons they recommend Linden Heights. Traffic is calm and slow-moving, thanks to the neighborhood’s winding roads and limited-through streets. While petty crime does occasionally happen—as it does in any city—neighbors are active in crime watch groups, and it’s common for folks to look out for each other’s homes during vacations.
Streetlights, clear sidewalks, and an active neighborhood association help contribute to that secure, hometown feel.
Proximity to Downtown and Major Employers
Commuting is a breeze from Linden Heights. Downtown Des Moines is less than 10 minutes away by car via Grand Avenue or Ingersoll, making it an easy choice for professionals who want a quiet home base with fast access to city offices, the Civic Center, and top employers like Principal Financial or MercyOne Medical Center.
- The nearby University Avenue corridor also hosts several major employers, and Des Moines University’s campus brings in healthcare professionals from all over.
- For those who travel frequently, the Des Moines International Airport is under 15 minutes away on a typical day.
What Residents Love Most
Ask anyone why they love Linden Heights, and you’ll hear a recurring theme: “It feels like home.” People here rave about:
- The unmistakable sense of community, where front porch conversations and holiday luminaria are the norm.
- The beauty and variety of the housing stock—often lovingly maintained or historically updated.
- The ease of access to everything Des Moines has to offer, while still enjoying peaceful, tree-lined streets.
Simply put, Linden Heights is the kind of neighborhood where you can settle in, put down roots, and truly feel a sense of place.
Whether you’re raising a family, starting a new job, or just seeking a tranquil urban oasis, Linden Heights offers the best of Des Moines living—old-fashioned neighborliness, beautiful homes, and a true sense of belonging.