Nestled in the southwest corner of the Des Moines Metro, the charming town of Cumming, IA, stands adjacent to Norwalk and West Des Moines, just off Interstate 35 at EXIT 65. It's a haven, boasting around 35 homes with a median assessed value of $115,000. The town features a church, Post Office, American Legion Post, various industries, services, a tavern, distillery, wine bar, and a general store.
Established on October 26, 1888, Cumming flourished as part of the Chicago Great Western railroad. However, progress stalled in the mid-1900s. The closure of the school and elevator, removal of railroad tracks, and a general stagnation characterized the latter half of the century.
In the late 1900s, the Des Moines Metro expanded its cycling opportunities by repurposing abandoned railroads into bike trails. The opening of the Great Western Trail in 1992, running through Cumming, revitalized the area. The Cumming Tap, adjacent to the bike trail, became a hotspot for cyclists. Notably, the renowned RAGBRAI (Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa) passed through Cumming in 1997, igniting community spirit with 'I [HEART] Cumming' T-shirts.
With growth in the Des Moines metro and its neighboring suburbs, Norwalk and West Des Moines, Cumming has become an attractive residential hub. Surrounding rural lands have seen significant development, culminating in recent growth. The Middlebrook Agrihood, a pioneering development uniting residential neighborhoods, agriculture, and services, stands as a unique gem in the United States, propelling Cumming toward an era of rapid expansion.
Throughout the summer, Cumming hosts weekly outdoor events featuring live music and food, while winter offers a lineup of engaging indoor activities. Its close proximity to the metro ensures an easy commute to the myriad happenings across the entire metropolitan area.
Cumming offers a diverse array of housing options across various price ranges, abundant recreational opportunities, and a countryside ambiance with seamless access to urban amenities. It's a community where anyone would feel comfortable and delighted to live. Consider exploring all that Cumming has to offer—it might just be your perfect fit!
Looking for a home in Cumming? Contact Jon Niemeyer at 515-490-4675 or jon@exitrealtynorthstar.com.
-Written by Jon Niemeyer. All information is current as of 12/1/2023.