Considering Urbandale, IA for Your Family? Here’s What You Need to Know!
Nestled within the Des Moines metropolitan area, Urbandale, IA, is an inviting small city that boasts the charm of a close-knit community combined with the accessibility of an urban environment. For families with newborns, deciding where to plant roots is crucial. Urbandale offers a mix of many elements that can make raising a baby a joyous process, albeit with some potential challenges.
Life in Urbandale presents numerous advantages, especially for young families. With community-focused amenities and plenty of green spaces, it's easy to see why many parents might consider settling here. However, like every place, it has its upsides and downsides. Let’s delve deeper!
Education Opportunities
Education is one of the primary concerns for families looking to settle down. Urbandale takes pride in its array of early childhood education facilities and preschools. The Urbandale Community School District offers quality education from pre-kindergarten through high school. For early childhood education, facilities such as Kids Academy and Apple Tree Children's Center provide engaging, safe environments for newborns and toddlers.
“Early childhood education lays a strong foundation for lifelong learning, and Urbandale's offerings are commendable for small-town living.”
However, expanding horizons might require looking at nearby Des Moines, just a short drive away, which offers more extensive educational opportunities, including several universities and specialized institutions.
Healthcare Services
When it comes to healthcare, Urbandale does not fall short. The city offers several pediatric clinics and family health centers, including UnityPoint Clinic and MercyOne Urbandale Family Medicine, ensuring access to excellent healthcare services. Specialized newborn health facilities are also available in the larger Des Moines area, such as Blank Children's Hospital, which provides specialized pediatric and neonatal care.
While local facilities in Urbandale are reliable, having the proximity to a larger urban healthcare network significantly boosts the quality and variety of healthcare services available to families with newborns.
Outdoor Spaces
One of Urbandale's shining features is its abundance of parks and playgrounds. Living in a city that values green spaces is essential for parents wanting to introduce their newborns to the joys of the outdoors. Walker Johnston Park and Lions Park are family favorites, with well-maintained playgrounds and walking paths that are stroller-friendly.
Family-Friendly Attractions
Urbandale ensures no shortage of family-friendly attractions. You can take your little ones to the Living History Farms, a unique open-air museum offering interactive exhibits and consistent family-oriented events. For a more relaxed outing, the Urbandale Public Library regularly hosts educational activities and story hours suitable for young children.
For expanded options, families can venture into Des Moines, where places like the Blank Park Zoo and the Science Center of Iowa provide endless hours of educational fun and interactive play.
Housing
Housing in Urbandale is another strong point. The city features numerous family-friendly neighborhoods with affordable housing options. According to recent data, Urbandale's housing market offers competitive prices compared to national averages, making it accessible for young families. Sub-divisions like Waterford Landing and Bent Creek Estates offer spacious homes with yards—ideal for families planning to grow.
However, the cost of living, when combined with regional taxes, can be higher than in some rural parts of Iowa. It’s important to weigh the amenities and benefits against these costs.
Public Transportation
Navigating the city with a newborn in tow is significantly easier when public transportation is reliable. While Urbandale has limited public transit options compared to more urbanized areas, the DART (Des Moines Area Regional Transit) buses serve the area, linking it to the broader Des Moines network. Most families, however, rely on personal vehicles. The city offers ample parking and generally convenient roadways, making day-to-day commutes smoother.
Safety and Security
Safety is paramount for families with young children. Urbandale boasts low crime rates and is known for its safe, secure neighborhoods. Dedicated police and emergency services further assure that help is always available when needed. The city's emphasis on community policing and neighborhood watch programs enhances the sense of security.
Community Support
Finally, no family should overlook the importance of community support. Urbandale hosts various parent groups and community events, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual support. Moms Meetup groups and community centers frequently organize events to help new parents connect, share experiences, and build friendships.
Insight for Living in Urbandale
- Education Opportunities: Leverage both local facilities and the proximity to Des Moines for a broader range of educational opportunities.
- Healthcare Services: Top-notch local clinics with access to specialized care in Des Moines.
- Outdoor Activities: Ample green spaces and family-friendly parks provide great venues for spending quality time outdoors.
Pros:
- Abundance of parks and green spaces.
- Low crime rates and safe neighborhoods.
- Quality healthcare services readily available.
- Family-friendly community events and parent support groups.
- Affordable and spacious housing options.
Cons:
- Limited public transportation options.
- Higher overall cost of living compared to rural areas.
- Limited scope of local educational institutions (higher education).
- Dependence on Des Moines for specialized services.
- Fewer cultural attractions within the immediate vicinity.
The Verdict: Urbandale Awaits
All in all, Urbandale, IA, offers an enticing blend of safety, community, and family-friendly amenities that can make raising a newborn delightful. While there are challenges such as transportation and the need for occasional trips to Des Moines for certain specialized services, the advantages far outweigh these minor inconveniences. With its robust community support, quality healthcare, and plethora of green spaces, Urbandale could very well be the perfect place for your family to call home.