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Des Moines

Des Moines

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Living in Des Moines, Iowa

As the capital and cultural hub of Iowa, Des Moines offers a vibrant mix of urban energy, family-friendly neighborhoods, and Midwestern charm. With a thriving job market, diverse housing options, and a strong sense of community, Des Moines is more than just a place to live—it’s a place to grow, thrive, and enjoy life at every stage.

What You’ll Love About Des Moines

  • Affordable Cost of Living: Des Moines consistently ranks as one of the most affordable major metros in the U.S., with competitive home prices and a low cost of living.

  • Diverse Housing Options: From downtown lofts and historic homes to new suburban developments and quiet cul-de-sacs, homes for sale in Des Moines, IA offer something for every lifestyle and budget.

  • Strong Job Market: Home to major employers in insurance, finance, healthcare, and tech, Des Moines is a growing hub for professionals and entrepreneurs.

Des Moines Lifestyle

Living in Des Moines means access to big-city amenities with a small-town feel. Whether you’re exploring vibrant neighborhoods, enjoying the local arts scene, or raising a family in a quiet part of town, Des Moines offers a well-balanced lifestyle. The city’s walkable downtown, expansive park system, and top-rated schools make it a top choice for young professionals, families, and retirees alike.

The city’s steady growth and revitalization efforts have led to an exciting mix of old and new—historic districts, modern developments, and a strong sense of civic pride.

Amenities & Community Features

  • Downtown Des Moines: Packed with restaurants, breweries, shops, and the beautiful Principal Riverwalk.

  • Public Parks & Trails: More than 75 parks and 80+ miles of trails, including Gray’s Lake Park and the High Trestle Trail nearby.

  • Education & Schools: Served by Des Moines Public Schools and several highly rated private and charter schools.

  • Cultural Attractions: Visit the Des Moines Art Center, Science Center of Iowa, and the historic East Village district for arts, culture, and shopping.

Things to Do in Des Moines, IA

  • Explore the Farmers’ Market: The Downtown Farmers’ Market is one of the best in the Midwest, drawing thousands every weekend in season.

  • Catch a Show or Game: Home to the Des Moines Civic Center, Iowa Cubs (AAA baseball), and a buzzing local music scene.

  • Attend Annual Events: The Iowa State Fair, 80/35 Music Festival, and World Food & Music Festival are just a few of the city’s can’t-miss traditions.

  • Dine Your Way Across the City: From upscale farm-to-table dining to hidden gems in neighborhood joints, Des Moines is a food lover’s city.

Why Buy a Home in Des Moines, Iowa?

Des Moines real estate offers incredible value, diverse inventory, and long-term investment potential. Whether you're searching for your first home, upgrading to a larger space, or relocating for work, homes for sale in Des Moines, IA offer the opportunity to live in one of the most livable and up-and-coming cities in the Midwest.

From historic neighborhoods like Sherman Hill and Beaverdale to fast-growing suburbs and downtown condos, Des Moines has the lifestyle—and the home—to match your goals.


Overview for Des Moines, IA

213,545 people live in Des Moines, where the median age is 34.2 and the average individual income is $31,276. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

213,545

Total Population

34.2 years

Median Age

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

$31,276

Average individual Income

Around Des Moines, IA

There's plenty to do around Des Moines, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.

48
Car-Dependent
Walking Score
63
Bikeable
Bike Score
32
Some Transit
Transit Score

Points of Interest

Explore popular things to do in the area, including Hotsy Totsy Food Truck, Mayalu Coffee, and Our Creation Cakes.

Name Category Distance Reviews
Ratings by Yelp
Dining 1 miles 5 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining 2.64 miles 16 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining · $$ 1.94 miles 6 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining · $$ 0.29 miles 10 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining 0.3 miles 7 reviews 5/5 stars
Shopping 3.64 miles 8 reviews 5/5 stars

Demographics and Employment Data for Des Moines, IA

Des Moines has 86,992 households, with an average household size of 2.4. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Des Moines do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 213,545 people call Des Moines home. The population density is 2,421.72 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

213,545

Total Population

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

34.2

Median Age

49.08 / 50.92%

Men vs Women

Population by Age Group

0-9:

0-9 Years

10-17:

10-17 Years

18-24:

18-24 Years

25-64:

25-64 Years

65-74:

65-74 Years

75+:

75+ Years

Education Level

  • Less Than 9th Grade
  • High School Degree
  • Associate Degree
  • Bachelor Degree
  • Graduate Degree
86,992

Total Households

2.4

Average Household Size

$31,276

Average individual Income

Households with Children

With Children:

Without Children:

Marital Status

Married
Single
Divorced
Separated

Blue vs White Collar Workers

Blue Collar:

White Collar:

Commute Time

0 to 14 Minutes
15 to 29 Minutes
30 to 59 Minutes
60+ Minutes

Schools in Des Moines, IA

All ()
Primary Schools ()
Middle Schools ()
High Schools ()
Mixed Schools ()
The following schools are within or nearby Des Moines. The rating and statistics can serve as a starting point to make baseline comparisons on the right schools for your family. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Type
Name
Category
Grades
School rating

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