Johnston is in Polk county. A special 2005 census estimates Johnston's population at 13,596. Johnston began as a station on the interurban railway between Des Moines and Perry. Today, Johnston is one of the Des Moines Metropolitian Area's fastest growing communities. Johnston is home to Pioneer Hi-Bred Seeds, Iowa Public Television, Camp Dodge Military Reservation and Salorville Reservoir.

Residents of Johnston enjoy an excellent quality of life with city leaders committed to high educational standards and new business development. The city of Johnston also offers a wealth of parks and trails and, with Salorville Reservior, the opportunity for camping and boating.