Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Des Moines, IA
Considering a move to Des Moines, IA? With a population of over 212,000, Des Moines offers affordable living—median home prices around $178,000 and average 2-bedroom rent at $1,060. Residents enjoy short average commutes (about 20 minutes), quality hospitals, and access to higher education at institutions like Drake University. While property crime rates are above national average, the city boasts a friendly Midwestern vibe, reasonable cost of living, and a climate with four distinct seasons and plentiful sunny days.
Demographics - Des Moines, IA
Demographics - Des Moines, IA
Des Moines is a diverse city of about 212,000 residents with a median age of 35 and a balanced gender ratio. The community features a mix of backgrounds, with approximately 64% White, 12% Black, and 6% Asian populations, and over 12% of residents speaking a language other than English at home. Moderate population density and a blend of cultures contribute to a vibrant urban atmosphere.
Population:
212,031
Density:
2,600 per sq mi
Median Age:
35.0
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
12.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
63.9%
Black:
12.2%
Asian:
6.1%
Others:
17.8%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Des Moines, IA?
Des Moines offers an affordable cost of living, with median home values around $178,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $1,060. Essential expenses like utilities, groceries, and transportation remain below the national average, making it a budget-friendly option for families and professionals. State taxes range from 4.4% to 8.53%, further supporting a reasonable overall cost profile.
Median House Value:
$178,000
Gross Rent:
$1,060
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$112
Auto Insurance:
$1,140
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,410
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$500
State Taxes:
Low:
4.4%
|
High:
8.53%
Cost Of Living Index:
88.3
Grocery:
96.0
Housing:
68.2
Utilities:
90.5
Transportation:
98.7
Health Care:
94.8
Miscellaneous:
99.1
Crime
Is Des Moines, IA a safe place to live?
While Des Moines maintains a welcoming environment, property crime rates are higher than average, with a 1 in 26 chance annually. Violent crime is less common, with about 556 incidents per 100,000 people. Residents benefit from community initiatives and active law enforcement, but it's wise to stay vigilant and take standard safety precautions.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
556
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,821
Crime Index:
4,377
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 180
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 26
Weather
What is the weather like in Des Moines, IA year-round?
Des Moines experiences all four seasons, featuring cold winters with lows near 14°F and warm summers reaching up to 86°F. The city enjoys about 57% sunny days each year and receives roughly 36 inches of rainfall annually. This climate supports a variety of outdoor activities throughout the year.
Winter
Min:
14°F
Max:
33°F
Spring
Min:
38°F
Max:
64°F
Summer
Min:
63°F
Max:
86°F
Fall
Min:
41°F
Max:
66°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
36.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
57%
Neighbors
The community in Des Moines is characterized by a median household income of $61,600 and a family income of $78,200. Most residents have at least a high school education, and average commute times are short, at just under 20 minutes. A modest poverty rate and low unemployment contribute to a stable local economy.
Median Income:
$36,500
Household Income:
$61,600
Family Income:
$78,200
Per Capita Income:
$33,700
Income Male:
$41,800
Income Female:
$36,900
Poverty Rate:
15.3%
Non English Speakers:
12.5%
Rent:
$1,060
Unemployment Rate:
3.8%
Public Transport Usage:
2.1%
Commute Time:
19.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
91.7%
Bachelors or More:
33.1%
Education
How are the schools in Des Moines, IA?
Des Moines offers strong educational opportunities, including public schools like Roosevelt High School and Merrill Middle School, as well as private schools such as Dowling Catholic High School. Higher education is readily available at local institutions like Drake University and Grand View University. The city’s schools provide diverse options for students of all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Roosevelt High School
Street:
4419 Center St
Phone:
515-242-7272
Students:
2,000
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.0
Name:
Merrill Middle School
Street:
5301 Grand Ave
Phone:
515-242-8445
Students:
850
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.8
Private Schools
Name:
Dowling Catholic High School
Street:
1400 Buffalo Rd
Phone:
515-222-1001
Students:
1,425
Colleges
Name:
Drake University
City:
Des Moines
State:
IA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
4,800
Name:
Grand View University
City:
Des Moines
State:
IA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
1,900
Healthcare
Des Moines residents have access to quality healthcare at major facilities such as MercyOne and UnityPoint Health, both offering comprehensive services and emergency care. With 2.3 physicians per 1,000 people and nearly 94% health insurance coverage, the city ensures good medical support. The healthcare system is reliable and easily accessible for new arrivals.
Major Hospitals
Name:
MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center
Address:
1111 6th Ave, Des Moines, IA 50314
Phone:
(515) 247-3121
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
UnityPoint Health - Iowa Methodist Medical Center
Address:
1200 Pleasant St, Des Moines, IA 50309
Phone:
(515) 241-6212
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.8%
Health Care Index:
77.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Des Moines, IA?
The Des Moines housing market features a median home price of $178,000 and owner-occupancy at about 60%. Renters find average two-bedroom rates at $1,060, and the market shows steady growth with a 4.4% annual appreciation rate. A relatively low vacancy and foreclosure rate make it a stable place to buy or rent.
Median Home Price:
$178,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,060
Owner Occupied Rate:
60.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.4%
New Construction Rate:
1.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Vehicle services in Des Moines are managed by the Iowa Department of Transportation – Motor Vehicle Division, located in nearby Ankeny. Residents can access driver licensing, registration, and other services either in person or online at the official state website. The DMV location is convenient for the greater Des Moines area.
State:
Iowa
Department:
Iowa Department of Transportation - Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
6310 SE Convenience Blvd, Ankeny, IA 50021
Phone:
515-244-8725
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.