Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Des Moines, WA
Considering a move to Des Moines, WA? With a population of about 32,400, this waterfront city offers a mild Pacific Northwest climate, median home prices around $540,000, and average rents near $1,780. Residents enjoy a moderate cost of living, easy access to major highways, and a 31-minute average commute. While property crime rates are higher than average, Des Moines boasts good schools, proximity to Seattle, and beautiful Puget Sound views—making it a great choice for families and professionals alike.
Demographics - Des Moines, WA
Demographics - Des Moines, WA
Des Moines, WA is home to approximately 32,400 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of 38. The city features a blend of cultures, with over 23% of residents speaking a language other than English at home, and notable White, Asian, and Black populations. Its balanced gender ratio and moderate population density create a welcoming, suburban atmosphere for newcomers.
Population:
32,400
Density:
3,900 per sq mi
Median Age:
38.0
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
23.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
54.3%
Black:
10.2%
Asian:
15.5%
Others:
20.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Des Moines, WA?
The cost of living in Des Moines is moderately high, with a cost of living index at 128.9 and median home values around $540,000. Monthly rent averages $1,780, and residents benefit from no state income tax while facing slightly elevated prices for housing and transportation. Overall, the city offers an appealing lifestyle for those seeking waterfront living near Seattle.
Median House Value:
$540,000
Gross Rent:
$1,780
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,350
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,580
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$765
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
9.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
128.9
Grocery:
116.7
Housing:
148.3
Utilities:
97.8
Transportation:
120.3
Health Care:
115.1
Miscellaneous:
112.5
Crime
Is Des Moines, WA a safe place to live?
Des Moines experiences a higher rate of property crime, with a 1 in 30 chance annually, while the violent crime rate remains relatively low at 1 in 329. The city's overall crime index reflects this trend, making it important for residents to be mindful of property security. Despite this, many find the community safe and inviting for families.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
304
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,368
Crime Index:
3,672
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 329
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 30
Weather
What is the weather like in Des Moines, WA year-round?
Des Moines enjoys a classic Pacific Northwest climate, with mild summers reaching highs around 76°F and cool, wet winters averaging 36–48°F. The city receives about 38 inches of rainfall annually and experiences sunshine roughly 43% of the year. This weather supports lush landscapes and comfortable outdoor living for much of the year.
Winter
Min:
36°F
Max:
48°F
Spring
Min:
44°F
Max:
61°F
Summer
Min:
55°F
Max:
76°F
Fall
Min:
46°F
Max:
62°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
38.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
43%
Neighbors
Residents of Des Moines benefit from a median household income of $77,600 and a poverty rate of just under 10%. The area is well-educated, with over 91% holding at least a high school diploma, and the average commute takes about 31 minutes. A diverse, community-oriented atmosphere is supported by the city's multicultural population and access to public transportation.
Median Income:
$42,900
Household Income:
$77,600
Family Income:
$90,200
Per Capita Income:
$36,200
Income Male:
$50,200
Income Female:
$42,100
Poverty Rate:
9.4%
Non English Speakers:
23.5%
Rent:
$1,780
Unemployment Rate:
4.8%
Public Transport Usage:
7.9%
Commute Time:
31.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
91.1%
Bachelors or More:
28.4%
Education
How are the schools in Des Moines, WA?
Education in Des Moines is well-supported, with reputable public schools like Mount Rainier High School and Pacific Middle School, as well as private options such as St. Philomena Catholic School. The city is also home to Highline College, and is located just 15 miles from the University of Washington in Seattle, giving residents access to quality K-12 and higher education opportunities.
Public Schools
Name:
Mount Rainier High School
Street:
22450 19th Ave S
Phone:
206-631-7000
Students:
1,650
Student Teacher Ratio:
19.0
Name:
Pacific Middle School
Street:
22705 24th Ave S
Phone:
206-631-6500
Students:
950
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.2
Private Schools
Name:
St. Philomena Catholic School
Street:
1815 S 220th St
Phone:
206-824-4051
Students:
340
Colleges
Name:
Highline College
City:
Des Moines
State:
WA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
6,500
Name:
University of Washington - Seattle
City:
Seattle
State:
WA
Distance:
15 miles
Students:
48,000
Healthcare
Des Moines residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like St. Anne Hospital and Valley Medical Center nearby. With 2.1 physicians per 1,000 people and over 92% health insurance coverage, medical services are both accessible and reliable. The healthcare index reflects solid overall care for families and individuals in the area.
Major Hospitals
Name:
St. Anne Hospital
Address:
16251 Sylvester Rd SW, Burien, WA 98166
Phone:
(206) 244-9970
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Valley Medical Center
Address:
400 S 43rd St, Renton, WA 98055
Phone:
(425) 228-3450
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.3%
Health Care Index:
77.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Des Moines, WA?
The housing market in Des Moines features a median home price of $540,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom apartment at $1,780. About 55% of homes are owner-occupied, and the area has a healthy 3.2% home appreciation rate over the past year. Moderate vacancy and foreclosure rates suggest a stable and appealing real estate market for buyers and renters alike.
Median Home Price:
$540,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,780
Owner Occupied Rate:
55.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
5.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Des Moines residents are served by the Washington State Department of Licensing, located in Olympia, which provides a full range of vehicle and driver services. Convenient online resources and a central phone line make it easy to manage licensing needs. The DMV ensures efficient access to state-required documentation for moving or settling in the city.
State:
Washington
Department:
Washington State Department of Licensing
Address:
405 Black Lake Blvd SW, Olympia, WA 98502
Phone:
360-902-3900
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.