Reasons to Move to Des Moines, Iowa

Des Moines, Iowa, stands out as a beacon of balanced urban development nestled in the heart of the Midwest. Known for its robust job market, the city is home to major insurance companies, financial services, and a burgeoning tech startup scene, earning it the nickname “Silicon Prairie.” Its economic stability is complemented by a cost of living that remains comfortably below the national average, offering an attractive proposition for both young professionals and families looking for a place where their dollar stretches further. Educational opportunities abound, with a plethora of highly rated schools and unique educational programs tailored to develop future leaders.

Culturally, Des Moines offers a rich tapestry that belies its modest size. The city is alive with arts and entertainment, highlighted by events like the Des Moines Art Festival and the internationally acclaimed World Food & Music Festival. For outdoor enthusiasts, over 800 miles of well-maintained trails and numerous parks dot the landscape, providing ample recreational opportunities year-round. Moreover, the revitalized downtown area invites residents and visitors alike with its blend of historic buildings and modern amenities, including a variety of local cuisine and bustling nightlife. This vibrant community spirit, coupled with tangible growth and development, makes Des Moines not just a place to live, but a place to thrive.

Cost to Move to Des Moines, Iowa

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Cost of living in Des Moines, Iowa

Housing Costs

Median Home Price: As of the latest data, the median home price in Des Moines is approximately $180,000, significantly lower than the national average. This makes Des Moines an attractive place for home buyers looking for affordability in a growing urban area. (SOURCE)

Utilities

Monthly Utilities: The average monthly cost of utilities in Des Moines, including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage, is around $170 for a 915-square-foot apartment, which is on par with the national average. (SOURCE)

Groceries/Food

Cost of Groceries: Grocery prices in Des Moines are about 5% lower than the national average. For example, a gallon of milk typically costs around $2.89, and a loaf of bread around $2.12. (SOURCE)

Transportation

Public Transportation: The cost of a monthly public transportation pass in Des Moines is about $48, which is quite affordable compared to larger metropolitan areas. (SOURCE)

Healthcare

Average Healthcare Costs: Healthcare costs in Des Moines are approximately 3% lower than the national average, making it an appealing option for residents looking for quality healthcare services at a reasonable cost. (SOURCE)

Childcare and Education

Childcare Costs: The average cost of childcare in Des Moines can vary widely depending on the type of provider and the age of the child, but on average, you can expect to pay around $1,000 per month for full-time childcare. (SOURCE)

Taxes

State and Local Taxes: Iowa has a progressive income tax rate ranging from 0.33% to 8.53%. Des Moines residents also pay a local sales tax rate of 7%. (SOURCE)

Insurance

Home and Auto Insurance: The average cost for homeowners insurance in Des Moines is about $1,256 per year, while auto insurance averages around $1,123 per year. (SOURCE)

Recreation and Entertainment

Leisure Activities: The cost for leisure and entertainment in Des Moines is relatively low, with movie tickets around $10 and monthly gym memberships around $30. (SOURCE)

Clothing

Apparel Expenses: Clothing costs in Des Moines are comparable to the national average, with typical consumer spending around $150 monthly on clothing. (SOURCE)

Personal Care

Personal Care Costs: Expenses for personal care products and services are also in line with the national average, with an average of $50 per month spent on these items. (SOURCE)

Miscellaneous Expenses

Miscellaneous: Other typical monthly expenses in Des Moines for items such as household goods and services average around $150. (SOURCE)

Is Des Moines, Iowa a safe place to live – Crime Rates?

Crime Rate

Overall Crime Rate: Des Moines has a crime rate that is slightly higher than the national average but is similar to urban areas of comparable size. The city reports a rate of about 42 crimes per 1,000 residents. (SOURCE)

Violent Crime Rate

Violent Crime Rate: The violent crime rate in Des Moines is approximately 6 incidents per 1,000 residents, which is near the national median for cities. (SOURCE)

Property Crime Rate

Property Crime Rate: Property crime in Des Moines occurs at a rate of about 36 incidents per 1,000 residents annually, which includes burglary, theft, and motor vehicle theft. (SOURCE)

Police Presence

Police Resources: Des Moines Police Department is well-staffed and equipped, with a focus on community policing and engagement. The department actively participates in community outreach programs to strengthen public relations and enhance safety. (SOURCE)

Neighborhood Watch Programs

Community Involvement: Des Moines has an active network of neighborhood watch programs, fostering strong community involvement and cooperation with law enforcement to maintain safety and awareness across the city. (SOURCE)

Safety Rankings

National Safety Rankings: Des Moines is ranked as safer than 10% of U.S. Cities, which reflects a mix of lower violent crime rates compared to other cities of similar size. (SOURCE)

Trend Data

Crime Trends: Over the past decade, crime rates in Des Moines have shown a trend towards stabilization, with slight year-over-year fluctuations but no significant long-term increases. (SOURCE)

School Safety

School Security Measures: Des Moines Public Schools have implemented various safety measures including surveillance systems, secure school entry procedures, and regular safety drills to ensure a secure environment for students. (SOURCE)

What are the demographics of Des Moines, Iowa?

White

70.5% of Des Moines’ population identifies as White.

Black or African American

11.5% of the population identifies as Black or African American.

Hispanic or Latino

13.4% of the population identifies as Hispanic or Latino.

Two or More Races

4.6% of the population identifies as Two or More Races.

Asian

6.5% of the population identifies as Asian.

Native American

0.3% of the population identifies as Native American.

Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander

0.1% of the population identifies as Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander.

U.S. Census Bureau – QuickFacts: Des Moines, Iowa (2021)

Des Moines, Iowa Population by Age and Gender

Total Population by Gender

The total population of Des Moines, Iowa is 214,133. Of this, 49.7% are male and 50.3% are female.

Age Distribution

The population is distributed as follows: 6.8% are under 5 years old, 23.8% are under 18, and 12.2% are 65 years and older.

Median Age

The median age in Des Moines is 34 years.

Dependency Ratios

The child dependency ratio is approximately 30%, and the old-age dependency ratio is about 19%.

Population Pyramid

Des Moines features a population pyramid typical of a growing city, with a broad base and gradually tapering towards older age groups, indicating a healthy spread across working and dependent age groups.

Marital Status by Age and Gender

Among residents aged 15 and over, 48% are currently married. The marriage rate tends to be higher among individuals aged 30 to 59.

Educational Attainment by Age and Gender

About 89.5% of residents aged 25 and older hold a high school degree or higher, and 33% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Educational attainment is slightly higher among women than men in this age group.

Economic Participation by Age and Gender

The labor force participation rate in Des Moines is 70.2% for residents over 16 years old. Men have a slightly higher participation rate than women in all working-age groups.

U.S. Census Bureau – QuickFacts: Des Moines, Iowa (2021)

Des Moines, Iowa Zip Codes

Des Moines, Iowa, primarily has the following ZIP codes:

  • 50301
  • 50302
  • 50303
  • 50304
  • 50305
  • 50306
  • 50307
  • 50308
  • 50309
  • 50310
  • 50311
  • 50312
  • 50313
  • 50314
  • 50315
  • 50316
  • 50317
  • 50318
  • 50319
  • 50320
  • 50321
  • 50322
  • 50323
  • 50324
  • 50325
  • 50327
  • 50328
  • 50329
  • 50330
  • 50331
  • 50332
  • 50333
  • 50334
  • 50335
  • 50336
  • 50339
  • 50340
  • 50359
  • 50360
  • 50361
  • 50362
  • 50363
  • 50364
  • 50367
  • 50368
  • 50369
  • 50380
  • 50381
  • 50391
  • 50392
  • 50393
  • 50394
  • 50395
  • 50396
  • 50398

This ZIP code covers the majority of the Des Moines, Iowa area.

What is the history of Des Moines, Iowa?

Early Beginnings

Des Moines, Iowa’s capital city, has its origins rooted deep in American history, beginning with its strategic location at the confluence of the Des Moines and Raccoon Rivers. Initially inhabited by indigenous tribes such as the Sauk and Meskwaki, the area was utilized for its plentiful resources and river-based transportation. European exposure began with French explorers in the late 17th century, who named the river after the native term for “river of the monks”.

The Fort Des Moines Establishment

The modern history of Des Moines traces back to 1843 when Fort Des Moines was established by the U.S. Army. This fort was originally set up to control the Sauk and Meskwaki populations. The town of Fort Des Moines was officially incorporated in 1851, and by 1857, when it was chosen as the state capital, it was shortened to Des Moines. The location was selected due to its central location within the state, an important consideration in an era when travel was predominantly by river or horse.

Industrial Growth and Development

Following the Civil War, Des Moines transitioned from a military outpost to a major commercial and rail hub. The arrival of multiple railroads in the 1860s spurred economic growth, population increase, and urban development. By the early 20th century, Des Moines had become a significant center for the insurance industry, earning a reputation as the “Hartford of the West”.

Mid-20th Century Changes

The mid-20th century brought a series of transformative public works projects, including the construction of a series of levees and flood gates that reshaped its riverfront. These changes effectively managed the flooding issues that had plagued the city for decades, facilitating further expansion and development. During this period, the city also saw significant architectural developments, with landmarks such as the Des Moines Art Center and the Iowa State Capitol building, which are noted for their architectural significance.

Modern Era and Urban Renewal

In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, Des Moines has experienced a revival, characterized by major urban renewal projects. The development of the East Village area brought a vibrant cultural and commercial revival to the historic part of the city. Today, Des Moines is recognized for its robust job market, particularly in the financial services and tech industries, and for maintaining high living standards with a focus on community and sustainability.

City of Des Moines – Historical Overview

Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs – Fort Des Moines

Des Moines Register

Des Moines, Iowa Weather

Average Temperature (by Month)

The average temperature in Des Moines, Iowa, varies greatly throughout the year. Below are the average monthly temperatures:

  • January: 20°F (-6°C)
  • February: 24°F (-4°C)
  • March: 36°F (2°C)
  • April: 50°F (10°C)
  • May: 60°F (16°C)
  • June: 70°F (21°C)
  • July: 77°F (25°C)
  • August: 75°F (24°C)
  • September: 65°F (18°C)
  • October: 52°F (11°C)
  • November: 36°F (2°C)
  • December: 24°F (-4°C)

Des Moines experiences distinct seasons, with cold winters and warm, humid summers. Average highs can reach 90°F (32°C) in the summer months, and average lows in winter can drop to below 10°F (-12°C). (SOURCE)

Precipitation (Rain) Patterns

Des Moines experiences moderate rainfall throughout the year, with the wettest months occurring in May and June. The city typically receives about 36 inches (914 mm) of precipitation annually. Rainfall averages about 4 inches (101 mm) per month in the summer months, decreasing to around 1 inch (25 mm) during the winter months. (SOURCE)

Extreme Weather Events

Des Moines is occasionally impacted by severe weather, particularly during the spring and summer months. Tornadoes are a significant risk in the region, as it is located in “Tornado Alley”. On average, the city experiences 1-2 tornadoes per year. Additionally, severe thunderstorms and hailstorms are common in the warmer months. (SOURCE)

Humidity Levels

Des Moines has a humid continental climate, meaning it experiences high humidity levels during the summer. The average relative humidity is 73%, but it can reach as high as 90% during the summer afternoons. Winters tend to have lower humidity levels, often around 65%. (SOURCE)

Sunlight

Des Moines enjoys an average of 210 sunny days per year. The sunniest months are typically June, July, and August, while the months of December and January tend to see fewer sunny days due to cloud cover. (SOURCE)

Wind Patterns

Wind is a notable characteristic of Des Moines’ weather, particularly in the winter and spring months. The average wind speed is 12 mph (19 km/h), with gusts reaching higher speeds during severe weather events. Winds are generally from the south in the summer and from the northwest in the winter. (SOURCE)

Weather Comparison: Des Moines vs. Iowa vs. U.S. Averages

When comparing Des Moines’ weather to the state and national averages:

  • Des Moines experiences slightly colder winters compared to the state average, with the state seeing slightly higher winter temperatures.
  • The city has a higher annual rainfall than Iowa’s average of 33 inches, and it is close to the national average of 38 inches.
  • Des Moines’ summer humidity is comparable to the national average, though it tends to be more noticeable due to the city’s midwestern location.

Weather.com – Des Moines, Iowa Weather

Average Income in Des Moines, Iowa

Average Annual Salary

The average annual salary in Des Moines, Iowa, is approximately $53,000. This is somewhat lower than the national average but reflects the more affordable cost of living in the area. (SOURCE)

Average Hourly Wage

The average hourly wage in Des Moines is about $25.50, which aligns with the median for similar-sized cities in the U.S. (SOURCE)

Median Salary Range

The median salary in Des Moines ranges between $45,000 and $60,000 per year, depending on industry and experience. The most common industries include financial services, insurance, and government jobs. (SOURCE)

Most Popular Jobs/Careers

The most popular jobs in Des Moines are in sectors such as insurance, healthcare, finance, and education. Some of the most common job titles include software developers, healthcare workers, insurance adjusters, and administrative professionals. (SOURCE)

Highest Paid Jobs Popular to the Area

In Des Moines, the highest-paid jobs tend to be in the fields of executive management, healthcare, and insurance. Positions like chief executives, doctors, and actuarial scientists command some of the highest salaries, typically ranging from $90,000 to over $200,000 annually. (SOURCE)

Income Comparison: Des Moines vs. Iowa vs. U.S. Averages

Des Moines has an average annual salary of $53,000, which is slightly below the state average of $58,000. Compared to the national average of around $58,000, Des Moines residents earn less, but this is offset by the city’s lower cost of living. (SOURCE)

ZipRecruiter – Average Salary for Des Moines, IA

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Taxes in Des Moines, Iowa

Property Taxes

The average effective property tax rate in Des Moines is approximately 1.56% of a property’s assessed value. This is close to the state average for Iowa, which is about 1.53%. The median property tax paid by homeowners in Des Moines is roughly $2,500 annually. Property tax rates in Iowa are determined at the county level, and Des Moines, being in Polk County, follows these rates. (SOURCE)

Sales Taxes

The sales tax rate in Des Moines is 7%, which includes a state rate of 6% and a local tax of 1%. This is in line with the sales tax rate for Iowa as a whole, which also has a 6% state sales tax rate. Some local areas in Iowa may have additional local taxes. (SOURCE)

Income Taxes

Iowa has a progressive income tax system with rates ranging from 0.33% to 8.53%. Des Moines residents are subject to Iowa’s state income tax, which has several income brackets:

  • Up to $1,667: 0.33%
  • $1,667 – $3,334: 0.67%
  • $3,334 – $5,000: 2.25%
  • $5,000 – $7,500: 4.14%
  • $7,500 – $10,000: 5.63%
  • $10,000 – $15,000: 6.12%
  • $15,000 – $20,000: 6.48%
  • Over $20,000: 8.53%

The state income tax applies to all Des Moines residents. (SOURCE)

Utility Taxes

Des Moines imposes a 1% utility tax on electricity, natural gas, and telecommunications services. This tax is added to the regular utility bill. (SOURCE)

Hotel Occupancy Tax

The hotel occupancy tax rate in Des Moines is 7%, which is the same as the overall local sales tax rate. This tax applies to all lodging establishments within the city. (SOURCE)

Entertainment Taxes

Des Moines does not have specific taxes on entertainment venues outside of the general sales tax. However, certain forms of entertainment like movie tickets and live performances are subject to the 7% sales tax. (SOURCE)

Tax Payment Schedule

Property taxes in Des Moines are due semi-annually: the first installment is due by September 30, and the second is due by March 31. Income taxes in Iowa are filed annually, with the deadline generally falling on April 30 for individuals. Sales taxes are typically paid quarterly for most businesses. (SOURCE)

Penalties for Late Payment

For property taxes, a 1.5% penalty is added each month for overdue payments. Late income tax filings are subject to interest and penalties as determined by the Iowa Department of Revenue. Sales tax late payments are also subject to penalties and interest. (SOURCE)

Where to Pay

Property taxes can be paid online through the Polk County Treasurer’s office website, by mail, or in person at the Treasurer’s office. Income taxes can be filed online through the Iowa Department of Revenue website or by mail. Sales taxes are filed through the Iowa Department of Revenue. (SOURCE)

Tax Comparison: Des Moines vs. Iowa vs. U.S. Averages

Des Moines follows the state of Iowa’s tax policies, which are slightly more favorable than the national average for property taxes, with the effective rate of 1.56% being below the U.S. average. Iowa’s state income tax system is higher than the national average, with rates that can go as high as 8.53%. However, the local sales tax rate is standard when compared to other U.S. cities with similar population sizes. (SOURCE)

Iowa Department of Revenue – Tax Information

Polk County Treasurer – Property Tax Information

Is Des Moines, Iowa a Good Place to Live for Singles?

Events and Activities

Des Moines offers a variety of events and activities that appeal to singles looking for things to do. The city hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Des Moines Arts Festival, World Food & Music Festival, and the Iowa State Fair. These events offer opportunities for socializing, meeting new people, and experiencing the city’s culture. For a more regular social calendar, the downtown area is home to vibrant bars, live music venues, and theaters like the Des Moines Civic Center. The city’s nightlife scene is energetic, with a range of trendy spots for singles. (SOURCE)

Gyms

For singles looking to stay fit and possibly meet others with similar interests, Des Moines has a variety of gyms and fitness centers. Whether you’re looking for a large national chain or a smaller boutique gym, you’ll find plenty of options. From fitness classes to swimming pools and personal training services, these gyms cater to all types of fitness enthusiasts. A search on Yahoo for local gyms in Des Moines will bring up various options, including YMCA, Anytime Fitness, and Gold’s Gym. (SOURCE)

Housing

For singles, Des Moines offers a mix of housing options, from modern downtown apartments to more suburban rentals. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Des Moines is around $800 to $1,200 per month, depending on the location and amenities. The city has a relatively affordable rental market compared to larger metropolitan areas. Websites like Zillow or Apartments.com can help you find current rental listings in Des Moines, with a variety of price ranges and neighborhood types to suit different preferences. (SOURCE)

Percentage of Single Residents

Approximately 47.7% of the adult population in Des Moines is unmarried, which is in line with the national average. This statistic reflects a relatively high proportion of singles in the city, providing a larger pool of potential social connections for those looking to meet others. Des Moines has a thriving social scene with ample opportunities for meeting people through events, activities, and community engagement. (SOURCE)

Comparison of Single Statistics

Compared to the state of Iowa, Des Moines has a similar percentage of single residents, with 47.7% of its adult population unmarried. The state of Iowa as a whole has an unmarried percentage of 47.5%, which is very close to the city’s rate. Nationally, the percentage of unmarried adults stands at approximately 50%, making Des Moines slightly below the U.S. average. However, the difference is minimal, and Des Moines offers a comparable social environment for singles. (SOURCE)

Is Des Moines, Iowa Good for Families?

Des Moines, Iowa, offers a variety of benefits for families looking to settle in a vibrant yet affordable city. With a relatively low crime rate, a good selection of family-friendly parks and recreational activities, affordable housing options, and a growing job market, Des Moines stands out as an excellent choice. The city’s average housing costs are lower than national averages, and the region’s diverse employment opportunities in fields such as insurance, education, and healthcare provide a stable environment for raising children. Additionally, the weather provides four distinct seasons, with pleasant summers and mild winters.

Parks and Family Activities

Des Moines is home to numerous parks and recreational areas, offering families the opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities year-round. Popular spots include the Blank Park Zoo, which is perfect for children to explore animals, and Gray’s Lake Park, which features walking trails and paddle boating. Families also enjoy frequent visits to the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden and the Des Moines Water Works Park, which host educational events and outdoor festivals. For more family-focused events, you can find a complete list of community activities on Catch Des Moines.

Restaurants

Des Moines offers a wide range of dining options that cater to families, with a variety of cuisines to explore:

Housing

Des Moines provides families with affordable home-buying options, with the median home price being approximately $180,000, significantly lower than national averages. The city offers diverse neighborhoods, from suburban areas to more urban, family-friendly locations. Popular neighborhoods for families include Beaverdale, Johnston, and Waukee, all offering good schools and parks. If you are interested in exploring homes for sale in Des Moines, you can find current listings on Zillow – Homes for Sale in Des Moines.

Percentage of Family Residents

About 48% of households in Des Moines consist of married couples, indicating a significant portion of the population is family-oriented. This is slightly lower than the state average of 50.3% but in line with the national average of 48%. The city offers a family-friendly environment with plenty of support systems, activities, and services for children. (SOURCE)

Comparison of Married Statistics

Des Moines has a 48% married population, which is quite close to both the state average of 50.3% and the U.S. national average of 48%. This indicates that Des Moines is a city with a healthy family demographic, offering a stable environment for raising children. (SOURCE)

How are the schools in Des Moines, Iowa?

Des Moines, Iowa offers a range of educational options from early childhood education to higher learning institutions. The Des Moines Public Schools (DMPS) district, which serves the city, is the largest in the state, with more than 30,000 students across 60 schools. The district has received attention for its efforts in improving school facilities, but also faces challenges with funding. In the 2020-2021 school year, the district’s per-student expenditure was around $11,000, below the national average but in line with other Iowa districts. Test scores in Des Moines show mixed results, with some schools performing above state averages, while others face challenges in math and reading proficiency. However, there is a strong focus on extracurricular activities, including arts, sports, and advanced placement programs. Des Moines Public Schools

Pre-K Schools

Des Moines offers several Pre-K programs designed to prepare young children for kindergarten. These programs are available through both the public school system and private providers. One example is the DMPS Early Learning Center, which provides free preschool to qualifying children in the district. In addition, the city has a number of private pre-schools, including Bright Horizons and KinderCare. For more detailed information on Pre-K options, you can visit DMPS Early Childhood Education.

Kindergarten Schools

Des Moines has a number of elementary schools that offer kindergarten programs, both in public and private institutions. Public schools, such as Adams Elementary and Garton Elementary, provide a well-rounded early education, focusing on literacy, math, and social development. DMPS offers a full-day kindergarten program for all students. The city’s private schools, including Des Moines Christian School and St. Augustin Catholic School, also offer excellent kindergarten options, often with a smaller student-to-teacher ratio. DMPS Elementary Schools

Elementary Schools

Des Moines offers a range of elementary schools serving students in grades K-5. Notable schools in the district include the award-winning Moulton Elementary and Cowles Montessori School, which provides an alternative education model. These schools offer strong academic programs and a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports and music. The district has also been making efforts to improve access to technology for all students. For a full list of elementary schools, visit DMPS Schools.

Middle Schools

Des Moines has a number of middle schools offering education for students in grades 6-8. One of the largest middle schools is Harding Middle School, which provides a range of academic and enrichment programs. Additionally, Callanan Middle School is known for its strong math and science programs. The district also has several specialized programs, including the Des Moines International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme. For more on middle school options, visit DMPS Middle Schools.

High Schools

Des Moines is home to several high schools, both public and private. The public high schools, such as Roosevelt High School and North High School, are part of DMPS and offer a wide variety of academic programs, including Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) courses. Roosevelt High School, in particular, is recognized for its arts programs and athletic achievements. The city also boasts private options like Des Moines Christian High School, which is known for its rigorous academics and college-preparatory focus. For more on Des Moines high schools, visit DMPS High Schools.

Colleges & Universities

For higher education, Des Moines offers several universities and colleges. Drake University is the most well-known, offering a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, including law, business, and health sciences. Additionally, Grand View University provides a liberal arts education and has a strong nursing program. Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) offers a wide range of two-year degrees and vocational programs. These institutions provide both local and international students with access to quality higher education. For more information on local colleges and universities, visit Drake University or Grand View University.

Churches in Des Moines, Iowa

Conclusion: Why you should consider moving to Des Moines, Iowa

Des Moines, Iowa offers a unique blend of affordable living, strong community, and growing opportunities, making it an ideal place to call home. With its low cost of living, including affordable housing and reasonable taxes, your dollar goes further here than in many larger cities. The city’s robust job market, particularly in finance, insurance, and healthcare, provides excellent career prospects. Families will appreciate the well-regarded schools, abundant parks, and family-friendly activities that make Des Moines a great place to raise children. For those seeking a balance of small-town charm with big-city amenities, Des Moines delivers. Whether you enjoy exploring local restaurants, attending cultural events, or enjoying outdoor recreation, there’s something for everyone. With its welcoming atmosphere, manageable size, and strong sense of community, Des Moines truly stands out as a place where you can thrive, both professionally and personally.