Everything You Should Know Before Moving to South Des Moines, IA
Considering a move to South Des Moines, IA? This welcoming city of 39,000 offers affordable living, with median home prices around $165,000 and average rents near $1,050. Residents enjoy short 20-minute commutes, solid public schools, and easy access to major healthcare centers. While crime rates are higher than national averages, the area boasts a friendly community, moderate cost of living, and a climate with warm summers and 60% sunny days. Explore the details below to see if South Des Moines is your next home.
Demographics - South Des Moines, IA
Demographics - South Des Moines, IA
South Des Moines is home to about 39,000 residents, with a median age of 35.7 years and a population density of 2,800 people per square mile. The community is diverse, with nearly one-third of residents identifying as Black, Asian, or other ethnic backgrounds, and around 10% speaking a language other than English at home. The area offers a balanced gender ratio and a welcoming environment for newcomers.
Population:
39,000
Density:
2,800 per sq mi
Median Age:
35.7
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
10.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
66.4%
Black:
13.8%
Asian:
5.6%
Others:
14.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in South Des Moines, IA?
Living in South Des Moines is budget-friendly, with a cost of living index of 89.5, well below the national average. Median home values are around $165,000, and typical rents are about $1,050 per month, making it an attractive option for both homeowners and renters. Utilities and groceries are moderately priced, helping residents stretch their budgets further.
Median House Value:
$165,000
Gross Rent:
$1,050
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$115
Auto Insurance:
$1,120
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,250
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$480
State Taxes:
Low:
4.4%
|
High:
8.53%
Cost Of Living Index:
89.5
Grocery:
97.8
Housing:
73.2
Utilities:
102.1
Transportation:
85.4
Health Care:
97.2
Miscellaneous:
92.5
Crime
Is South Des Moines, IA a safe place to live?
Crime rates in South Des Moines are somewhat higher than the national average, with a chance of property crime at 1 in 35 and violent crime at 1 in 215. While these statistics may be concerning, many residents find that community engagement and local safety measures help provide peace of mind. It's wise for newcomers to explore neighborhoods and stay informed about local safety initiatives.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
464
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,820
Crime Index:
3,284
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 215
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 35
Weather
What is the weather like in South Des Moines, IA year-round?
South Des Moines experiences all four seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 86°F and cold winters dipping to about 16°F. The city receives roughly 36 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunshine around 60% of the year. These weather patterns offer a pleasant balance of outdoor opportunities throughout the year.
Winter
Min:
16°F
Max:
33°F
Spring
Min:
38°F
Max:
64°F
Summer
Min:
65°F
Max:
86°F
Fall
Min:
40°F
Max:
67°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
36.3 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
60%
Neighbors
The median household income in South Des Moines is about $54,000, with a family income of $65,200 and a poverty rate of 13%. Most residents have at least a high school diploma, and the average commute is a manageable 20 minutes. The community is known for its friendly atmosphere and diverse backgrounds, making it easy to settle in.
Median Income:
$30,700
Household Income:
$53,900
Family Income:
$65,200
Per Capita Income:
$28,100
Income Male:
$36,500
Income Female:
$30,200
Poverty Rate:
13.1%
Non English Speakers:
10.5%
Rent:
$1,050
Unemployment Rate:
3.8%
Public Transport Usage:
1.2%
Commute Time:
20.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
89.8%
Bachelors or More:
23.6%
Education
How are the schools in South Des Moines, IA?
South Des Moines features solid educational options, including public schools like Lincoln High School and Park Avenue Elementary, as well as private institutions such as Christ the King School. Higher education is easily accessible, with Des Moines Area Community College just 12 miles away and Grand View University within the city. Families benefit from a range of schooling choices and supportive learning environments.
Public Schools
Name:
Lincoln High School
Street:
2600 SW 9th St
Phone:
515-242-7500
Students:
2,100
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.5
Name:
Park Avenue Elementary School
Street:
3141 SW 9th St
Phone:
515-242-8442
Students:
480
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.2
Private Schools
Name:
Christ the King School
Street:
801 SW 9th St
Phone:
515-285-3349
Students:
230
Colleges
Name:
Des Moines Area Community College
City:
Ankeny
State:
IA
Distance:
12 miles
Students:
22,900
Name:
Grand View University
City:
Des Moines
State:
IA
Distance:
6 miles
Students:
1,900
Healthcare
Residents have convenient access to top healthcare facilities, including MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center and UnityPoint Health – Iowa Methodist Medical Center. Around 92% of people here have health insurance, and there are 2.2 physicians available per 1,000 residents. Quality emergency and general medical services are readily available in the area.
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:
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.7%
Health Care Index:
77.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in South Des Moines, IA?
South Des Moines offers an accessible housing market with median home prices at $165,000 and a homeownership rate of over 62%. Rents for a two-bedroom apartment average $1,050, and the area has experienced a 6.7% home appreciation rate over the past year. Rental vacancies remain low, reflecting steady demand for homes.
Median Home Price:
$165,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,050
Owner Occupied Rate:
62.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.7%
New Construction Rate:
2.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
The Iowa Department of Transportation’s Motor Vehicle Division in nearby Ankeny serves South Des Moines residents for all licensing and vehicle registration needs. The office is conveniently located and provides comprehensive DMV services. Residents can find up-to-date information and access online services through the state DMV website.
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.