Clive Iowa

Moving to Clive, Iowa
Clive is frequently recognized as a desirable community for young professionals and families, thanks to its high quality of life, low unemployment, and access to excellent schools. The city emphasizes sustainability and green living, with initiatives supporting energy efficiency and environmentally friendly practices. Residents enjoy convenient transportation options, safe streets, and well-maintained bike paths. Clive also offers a vibrant local culture, with community events, parks, and recreational opportunities that bring neighbors together. Overall, Clive is celebrated as one of the most welcoming and livable suburbs in the Des Moines area.
Clive by the numbers
City population
Cost of living vs the national average
Median home price

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Discover Clive: Top Attractions and Things to Do
Local Experiences
Local Experiences
Clive, Iowa, offers a charming mix of outdoor recreation, local culture, and community events. Residents and visitors can enjoy the scenic Clive Greenbelt Trail, perfect for walking, running, or biking through wooded areas along Walnut Creek Food lovers will find a variety of dining options nearby, from casual American fare to globally inspired menus. For entertainment and events, the Horizon Events Center hosts concerts, festivals, and community gatherings year-round. With its parks, trails, and vibrant local experiences, Clive combines suburban comfort with active, engaging community life.
City of Clive
OpenTable – Clive Restaurants
Horizon Events Center
Sports and Recreation
Sports and Recreation
Clive, Iowa, offers a vibrant mix of recreational activities and community sports for all ages. The Clive Greenbelt Trail, a scenic 11.3-mile path, winds through the city, providing opportunities for walking, running, and biking amidst natural beauty. For those interested in organized sports, the city hosts over 350 youth and adult teams across various leagues, including basketball, softball, and sand volleyball. Facilities like Campbell Recreation Area and George Lundberg Park offer well-maintained spaces for team practices and tournaments. Additionally, the Horizon Events Center in nearby Clive hosts regional sports tournaments and community events, enhancing the area's recreational offerings.
Clive Greenbelt Trail
City of Clive
List of Parks in Polk County, Iowa
leagued.com
Adventures
Adventures
Clive, Iowa, offers a variety of activities for those seeking adventure and exploration. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the scenic Clive Greenbelt Trail, an 11.3-mile path perfect for walking, running, and biking. For a refreshing experience, the Clive Aquatic Center provides a 25-meter pool, water slides, and a spray deck. History buffs can visit the Clive History Museum, which features a preserved 1882 depot, caboose, and general store. Additionally, 515 Brewing Company offers a selection of craft beers in a relaxed setting. For those interested in unique dining experiences, Snack & Go serves Vietnamese street food, including ramen stir-fry and grilled chicken with sticky rice. Whether you're into outdoor activities, local history, or diverse cuisine, Clive has something to offer.
Clive Greenbelt Trail
Clive Aquatic Center
Clive History Museum
515 Brewing Company
Snack & Go
Seasonal Events
Seasonal Events
Clive, Iowa, offers a variety of seasonal events that cater to all interests throughout the year. In the summer, the Clive Festival, held on July 18–19, 2025, is the city's largest community event, featuring free live music, fireworks, food trucks, a kids' art expo, and unique activities like the Cardboard Boat Regatta at the Clive Aquatic Center. Autumn brings events such as the Des Moines Whiskey Festival on October 25, 2025, offering whiskey tastings and live entertainment.
Cardboard Boat Regatta
Des Moines Whiskey Festival
City of Clive Parks and Recreation
Community Resources
Clive, Iowa, is home to several reputable healthcare facilities offering a range of services to meet the needs of its residents.
MercyOne Clive Rehabilitation Hospital is a 50-bed inpatient acute rehabilitation hospital dedicated to the treatment and recovery of individuals who have experienced debilitating effects from severe injuries or illnesses. The facility provides specialized care to help patients regain independence and improve their quality of life.
mercyrehabdesmoines.com
MercyOne Clive Family Medicine offers comprehensive medical care for individuals and families, including preventive services, chronic disease management, and wellness check-ups. The clinic provides both in-person and telehealth visits to accommodate patient needs.
MercyOne
MercyOne Clive Richard Deming Cancer Center specializes in radiation oncology, providing advanced cancer treatments with a patient-centered approach. The center offers services such as multi-cancer early detection clinics and personalized care plans developed by a multidisciplinary team.
MercyOne
Clive Behavioral Health Hospital is a 100-bed facility offering inpatient behavioral health services for adults. The hospital provides treatment for various mental health disorders, including co-occurring disorders, in a supportive environment.
clivebehavioral.com
These facilities contribute to Clive's robust healthcare infrastructure, ensuring that residents have access to quality medical care close to home.
Clive, Iowa, offers a range of educational opportunities from early childhood through higher education.
K–12 Schools:
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Clive Learning Academy: A public elementary school serving grades K–6, known for its inquiry-based learning approach. wdmcs.org
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Crestview School of Inquiry: Also part of the West Des Moines Community Schools, this school emphasizes project-based learning. wdmcs.org
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Shuler Elementary School: Located in Clive, this school is part of the Waukee Community School District and serves grades K–5. SchoolDigger
Private Schools:
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Dowling Catholic High School: Situated in West Des Moines, this private Catholic high school offers a rigorous academic curriculum. Niche
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Grand View Christian School: Located in Des Moines, this school provides education from preschool through high school with a Christian-based curriculum. Niche
Higher Education:
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Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC): With multiple campuses in the region, DMACC offers over 220 programs, certificates, and transfer degrees, serving nearly 60,000 students annually. dmacc.edu
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Drake University: A private university in Des Moines known for its strong programs in law, business, and the liberal arts. Clive Chamber
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Iowa State University: Located in Ames, this public university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Clive Chamber
These institutions provide a comprehensive educational landscape for residents of Clive and the surrounding areas.
Government & Public Safety
Clive, Iowa, is served by the Clive Police Department, which operates out of the modern Clive Public Safety Center, a 44,000-square-foot facility that opened in 2021. This center houses both police and fire services, ensuring efficient emergency response and community safety. The Clive Fire Department is equipped to handle various emergencies, providing fire suppression, rescue, and emergency medical services.
Weather & Climate
Clive experiences a humid continental climate characterized by cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers. Average temperatures range from a low of 19°F in January to a high of 86°F in July. The area receives significant rainfall and snowfall, contributing to its lush green landscapes during warmer months.
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Transportation & Mobility
Clive is served by the Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART). Iowa’s largest public transit agency. DART operates 19 local routes, including several that serve Clive, providing residents with accessible public transportation options.
ridedart.com
For non-emergency medical transportation, services like Uber Health are available, offering HIPAA-compliant rides to medical appointments. Additionally, local companies such as Clive Transportation provide various transportation services to meet community needs.
Utilities & Waste Management
The City of Clive manages essential services including water, sewer, and waste collection. Residents can access information about these services and schedules through the City of Clive's Public Services webpage. The city promotes sustainability through its recycling programs and encourages residents to participate in waste reduction initiatives.
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This city guide is provided as a service by Atlas Van Lines.