Johnston IA

Johnston, Iowa – A welcoming blend of hometown charm and modern appeal, Johnston is a city where community spirit, natural beauty, and family-friendly living take center stage. Nestled just northwest of Des Moines, this vibrant suburb offers scenic parks, top-notch schools, and a warm, close-knit atmosphere that's perfect for families, professionals, and anyone seeking a peaceful yet connected lifestyle. Whether you're paddling on Saylorville Lake, savoring local eats, or enjoying one of the city's many seasonal events, Johnston invites you to slow down, explore, and enjoy the simple moments.

• Population: ~24,000
• Weather: Four seasons; warm summers (70-90°F), cold winters (15-35°F), colorful fall and blooming spring.
• Places To Visit: Terra Park, Beaver Creek Golf Course, Johnston Town Center, Saylorville Lake, Iowa Gold Star Military Museum.
• Top Activities: Kayaking on the lake, biking the Greenbelt Trail, attending summer concerts, exploring farmers markets, enjoying community festivals like Johnston Green Days.
• Famous Food: Classic Midwest comfort food, wood-fired pizza from local spots, hearty breakfasts, and craft beer from area breweries.

Johnston, Iowa is a growing suburb of Des Moines known for its strong schools, family-friendly amenities, and thriving business climate. The city is home to major employers in agriculture, insurance, education, and local government. With new developments and expanding infrastructure, Johnston offers great career opportunities for professionals across various industries.

Top 5 Jobs in Johnston, IA

Johnston, Iowa might be a smaller city, but it's filled with cozy corners, chill spots, and outdoor escapes where students can relax, hang out with friends, and enjoy life outside the classroom. Whether you’re looking to unwind with nature, grab a bite, or simply have some fun after school, Johnston has some great places to check out.

Terra Park – This local gem is a favorite among students who need a break from their schedules. With scenic walking trails, a peaceful lake, and plenty of green space to stretch out, it’s the perfect place for a casual hangout or a quiet study session on a nice day. Pack a snack, bring a blanket, and make it your go-to for outdoor relaxation.

Johnston Town Center – This newer addition to the city includes a mix of shops and spots to grab a drink or snack with friends. The open space often hosts events and pop-up markets, and it’s a great place to meet up with classmates or just enjoy the atmosphere after school or on the weekend.

El Mariachi Mexican Restaurant – Students love the energy here. It’s got awesome tacos, colorful decor, and a comfy vibe that makes it great for post-school dinner with friends or celebrating the end of exams. Bonus: the portions are generous and student-budget friendly.

Pioneer Parkway Trail – If you're the kind of student who likes to think while walking (or just needs a break from screen time), this nature trail is ideal. It’s not too long, shaded in parts, and a refreshing escape during spring and fall. Perfect for biking too!

Van Dee’s Ice Cream Shoppe – A Johnston tradition. Everyone loves Van Dee’s—it’s got that old-school community ice cream vibe with tons of flavors. Whether you're team chocolate or always go for something fruity, it's an easy stop after school with your crew.

The Yard Games at Johnston Public Library – It’s not just a place for books. The library often sets up outdoor games like giant Jenga, Connect Four, and cornhole on the lawn when the weather is nice. It gives “study break” a whole new meaning—and it’s free!

Summit Middle School Park – Even if you’ve moved on from middle school, this park’s basketball courts, playgrounds, and wide-open fields are still a hit. It’s great for pick-up games or just lounging with music and friends on a mild afternoon.

Johnston may be quiet on the surface, but it has a surprising number of places where students can recharge, have fun, and find connection. It’s all about knowing where to look—and now you do.

Johnston, Iowa is a thriving suburb just outside Des Moines, offering residents access to some of the top educational institutions in central Iowa. While Johnston itself is a growing community known for its excellent public schools, it is also conveniently located near renowned colleges and universities. Whether you’re looking for high-quality public education or prestigious private colleges, the area offers a rich selection of options to help students pursue their academic and career goals.

Top Public Colleges & Universities Near Johnston, IA

Iowa State University – Located in nearby Ames, Iowa State University is a leader in research and innovation. Known for its outstanding engineering, agriculture, business, and design programs, ISU attracts students from across the nation.

University of Iowa – About an hour and a half away in Iowa City, the University of Iowa is renowned for its excellent programs in healthcare, liberal arts, business, and especially its prestigious Writers’ Workshop.

Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) – Ankeny Campus – Only a short drive from Johnston, DMACC is Iowa’s largest community college. The Ankeny campus offers numerous two-year degrees, transfer programs, and career training certificates in high-demand fields.

University of Northern Iowa – Located in Cedar Falls, this university is celebrated for its strong teaching, business, and music programs. It’s a popular choice among students seeking a supportive mid-sized campus experience.

Drake University (Public Programs) – While Drake is officially a private university, its partnership programs and connections with the state make it accessible for public college seekers, especially in fields like pharmacy, law, and education in the heart of Des Moines.

Top Private Colleges & Universities Near Johnston, IA

Drake University – As a leading private institution in Des Moines, Drake is known for its strong business, law, pharmacy, journalism, and education schools. Its tight-knit campus culture and extensive alumni network provide outstanding opportunities.

Grand View University – Located in Des Moines, Grand View offers an engaging liberal arts education with standout nursing, business, and education programs. The campus fosters close faculty-student relationships and a vibrant campus life.

Des Moines University – Specializing in health-related graduate and doctoral programs, DMU is a top choice for students pursuing medicine, physical therapy, public health, and healthcare administration.

Mercy College of Health Sciences – Situated in downtown Des Moines, this private college focuses on healthcare degrees, from nursing and radiologic technology to healthcare administration and public health.

Simpson College (West Des Moines Campus) – With its main campus in Indianola and a convenient location in West Des Moines, Simpson offers flexible programs in business, education, and the liberal arts. Its personalized approach is ideal for adult learners and traditional students alike.

Whether you’re aiming for a career in healthcare, business, education, or the liberal arts, the Johnston area provides access to some of the best public and private colleges in Iowa. Each institution offers unique strengths, vibrant campus communities, and comprehensive support to help you achieve your academic dreams.

Johnston, Iowa, may be a quiet Des Moines suburb, but it's home to some outstanding high schools. Whether you're looking for academically rigorous public schools or private institutions with personalized attention, Johnston offers excellent choices to help students thrive and prepare for their futures.

Below, we highlight the top 5 public and private high schools in Johnston, IA, based on academic performance, college readiness, student engagement, and community reputation.

Top Public High Schools In Johnston, IA

• Johnston High School – The flagship public high school in the district, Johnston High boasts strong ACT scores, a wide selection of AP courses, and a state-recognized athletics and music program. Their focus on both academic and personal development makes it a well-rounded choice.
• Waukee Northwest High School – While technically located in nearby Waukee, this newer high school draws many families from the Johnston area. Known for its cutting-edge facilities and high academic standards, it rivals many schools in the state.
• Urbandale High School – Just minutes from Johnston, Urbandale High offers a diverse curriculum with solid STEM pathways, strong arts programming, and competitive athletics. It maintains high graduation and college matriculation rates.
• Dowling Catholic High School (Open Enrollment) – Though a private Catholic institution, many Johnston families choose Dowling through Iowa's open enrollment system. Excellent academics and spiritual education make it a standout.
• Ankeny Centennial High School – Located near Johnston, it’s known for academic rigor, a variety of extracurriculars, and strong college-prep focus. Its recent growth and innovation in teaching methods make it a top pick in the metro.

Top Private High Schools In Johnston, IA

• Des Moines Christian School – Located in nearby Urbandale, this private school welcomes students from Johnston and emphasizes Christ-centered education along with academic excellence. It offers small classes, nurturing teachers, and a strong sense of community.
• Grand View Christian School – A faith-based school in Des Moines that serves many Johnston families. It offers a college-prep curriculum along with spiritual grounding and leadership development opportunities.
• Dowling Catholic High School – While also mentioned under public options due to open enrollment, it ranks among the top private schools in the state. The school's commitment to academic rigor and values-based education supports students both academically and personally.
• Holy Trinity School – While technically a K-8 institution, many of its graduates go on to top-tier high schools. Known for preparing students early, it’s a preferred choice for families planning long academic paths in the private school system.
• Concordia Academy – A small but growing private Christian high school with a mission to develop students spiritually and academically. It provides individual attention and fosters a supportive learning environment grounded in faith.

Whether you’re searching for a top-tier public high school or a private school that aligns with your family’s values, Johnston IA offers a range of excellent options. Each school brings something unique—be it strong college prep, character education, or a supportive community. The key is finding the right fit for your student’s interests and goals.

While Johnston, Iowa, might not be home to any major professional sports teams like those in big cities such as Los Angeles or New York, it’s a vibrant community that’s deeply connected to the rich sports culture of the nearby Des Moines metropolitan area. Enthusiastic fans in Johnston often rally behind local teams that bring excitement and a professional-level experience to the heart of Iowa.

From baseball to hockey, these teams may not all play on national TV every week, but they thrive on passionate support and serve as stepping stones for future stars.

Baseball – Iowa Cubs (Triple-A Affiliate of the Chicago Cubs)

• Iowa Cubs – Based in nearby Des Moines, the Iowa Cubs are a Triple-A Minor League Baseball team affiliated with the Chicago Cubs. They play at Principal Park, just a short drive from Johnston. With a family-friendly environment and affordable tickets, catching an I-Cubs game is a favorite summer activity for Johnston locals. Over the years, many big-league stars, including Kris Bryant and Javier Báez, spent time with the I-Cubs before making it big in the MLB.

Hockey – Iowa Wild (AHL Affiliate of the Minnesota Wild)

• Iowa Wild – Hockey fans in the Johnston area don’t have to go far for fast-paced action. The Iowa Wild are the American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate of the Minnesota Wild, playing home games at the Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines. The team has cultivated a strong local following thanks to their competitive play and the close proximity to the NHL. The Wild offer fans a chance to see future NHL players in an up-close and energized atmosphere.

Basketball – Iowa Wolves (NBA G League Affiliate of the Minnesota Timberwolves)

• Iowa Wolves – Professional basketball is alive and well in Iowa thanks to the Iowa Wolves, the NBA G League affiliate of the Minnesota Timberwolves. Playing in Des Moines, they provide an exciting basketball experience for Johnston residents and serve a critical role in developing the next generation of NBA talent. The G League is fast-paced and showcases emerging players, and attending games gives fans front-row access to rising stars.

Soccer – Des Moines Menace (USL League Two)

• Des Moines Menace – Soccer fans in Johnston cheer for the Des Moines Menace, one of the most successful teams in USL League Two. With several championship titles under their belt, including the 2021 USL League Two National Championship, the Menace have built a strong reputation as a top-tier amateur soccer team. Their games are full of energy and perfect for families and fans of all ages. They play at Valley Stadium in West Des Moines, just minutes from Johnston.

Football – Iowa Barnstormers (Indoor Football League)

• Iowa Barnstormers – Arena football brings hard hits and fast plays, and the Iowa Barnstormers deliver exactly that. Based in Des Moines and part of the Indoor Football League (IFL), the team has a loyal fan base throughout central Iowa, including Johnston. The team’s claim to fame includes the legendary quarterback Kurt Warner, who got his start with the Barnstormers before going on to win a Super Bowl and enter the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Though Johnston, IA doesn't house major league teams directly, it's surrounded by professional sports experiences that are just as thrilling. Whether you’re a fan of baseball, hockey, basketball, soccer, or football, there’s always a reason to cheer right here in the heart of Iowa!

Johnston, Iowa may be a small city, but it’s full of charm, history, and surprising fun facts that make it a wonderful place to explore. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, here are some fascinating things you might not know about Johnston:

1. Home of Pioneer – Johnston is the proud headquarters of Corteva Agriscience, formerly known as DuPont Pioneer, a global leader in agriculture and seed technology.
2. Military Roots – The Camp Dodge Military Reservation has been a major part of Johnston since World War I. It’s still operational today and includes a public museum packed with Iowa military history.
3. Splash-tastic Summers – Johnston is home to The Aquatic Center, a popular and family-friendly water park that’s perfect for beating the summer heat.
4. Bike Lover’s Paradise – The Johnston Trail System connects to miles of scenic biking and walking trails, including access to the extensive Central Iowa Trail Network.
5. One of the Safest Cities – Consistently ranked as one of the safest cities in Iowa, Johnston is known for its low crime rates and strong community support services.
6. Lush Greenery Galore – With over 40 parks, playgrounds, and open spaces, nature lovers can feel right at home here. Terra Park is especially popular for picnicking, fishing, and relaxing walks.
7. Library with a View – The Johnston Public Library isn’t just a great place to find books — it also hosts hundreds of community events each year, from story times to tech classes.
8. Top-Rated Schools – Johnston Community School District is among the best in Iowa, known for its high graduation rates and innovative programs.
9. Celebrating Community – Every summer, Johnston hosts its annual festival, Johnston Green Days, featuring a parade, carnival, live music, food vendors, and a beer garden — all celebrating local pride!
10. Big City Proximity – While Johnston offers a small-town feel, it’s just minutes away from downtown Des Moines, giving residents and visitors the best of both worlds!