Home to one of Iowa's largest living history museums and a thriving tech corridor, Urbandale transformed from a humble streetcar suburb with four coal mines into one of the Des Moines metro's fastest-growing communities. This well-connected city offers renters convenient access to downtown Des Moines while maintaining its own distinct character through preserved historical sites and modern developments.

Renters in Urbandale enjoy diverse housing options, from modern townhomes to apartment communities throughout the city. The northern section near the "Urban Loop" business district provides newer rental developments with easy interstate access, while established neighborhoods closer to Living History Farms feature rental homes with tree-lined streets. With average one-bedroom apartments renting for $921 and two-bedrooms for $1,054, Urbandale provides competitive rates compared to neighboring West Des Moines.

The city encompasses 850 acres of parkland, including Walker Johnston Park and Lions Park, plus 33 miles of recreational paths including the popular Urbandale Trail connecting to the greater Des Moines trail system. Major employers like Mercer, John Deere Intelligent Solutions, and Continental Western Insurance maintain headquarters within minutes of residential areas. The 15-minute drive to downtown Des Moines makes Urbandale an appealing choice for renters who want a suburban setting with easy city access.