If you’re considering a move and have Des Moines, Iowa, on your radar, you might be wondering if Iowa’s capital city is the right fit for you. It’s easy to assume that a mid-sized city in the Midwest might not have much excitement to offer, but Des Moines constantly defies such assumptions.
From its robust job market to its vibrant arts scene, this city has a way of charming both first-time visitors and longtime residents. In this article, we’ll explore whether Des Moines truly lives up to its reputation as a friendly, opportunity-rich place to call home.
We’ll also incorporate some key data points to give you a clearer picture of what life here looks like by the numbers.
The Heart of the Midwest Charm
One of the first things you’ll notice about Des Moines is its trademark Midwest friendliness. Whether you’re striking up a conversation in line at the grocery store or chatting with locals at a neighborhood festival, you’ll find that Iowans tend to be approachable and generous with their time.
This communal spirit is especially prominent in Des Moines, where neighbors often look out for one another and newcomers are quickly made to feel at home.
A Mid-Sized City That Doesn’t Overwhelm
With a population of around 217,521 in the city proper and over 700,000 residents throughout the metro area (2020 U.S. Census estimates), Des Moines is large enough to offer urban amenities but still maintains a close-knit feel.
You won’t be swallowed up by the hustle and bustle you might experience in cities like Chicago or New York. Instead, Des Moines offers the advantages of a city—job opportunities, cultural events, diverse neighborhoods—without the higher levels of stress or congestion.
This balanced pace of life plays a significant role in answering the question: Is Des Moines, IA A Good Place To Live? For many, the answer is a resounding “yes.”
Downtown Vibes and Neighborhood Highlights
- When you picture downtown Des Moines, you might imagine the iconic gold-domed Capitol building. But there’s a lot more to uncover beyond that famous landmark. Thanks to revitalization projects over the past two decades, downtown Des Moines is now a thriving hub of eateries, nightlife spots, green spaces, and cultural venues.
- Court Avenue District: Packed with bars, restaurants, and music venues, Court Avenue buzzes with energy on weekend nights. Whether you’re in the mood for a local craft brew or a fine-dining experience, you’ll find an option here.
- East Village: Known for its boutique shops and hipster coffee bars, East Village combines historic architecture with a modern flair. You’ll often find creative professionals and younger residents strolling the streets, window-shopping, and enjoying the variety of unique eateries.
- Western Gateway Park: Home to the eye-catching Pappajohn Sculpture Park, this area fuses contemporary art with urban green spaces. Surrounded by museums, galleries, and cafes, Western Gateway is a favorite destination for weekend picnics and cultural outings.
Beyond downtown, Des Moines is surrounded by neighborhoods that reflect the city’s diversity. Areas like Beaverdale and Sherman Hill boast charming historic homes, while suburbs such as Waukee, Ankeny, and Urbandale draw families with their highly-rated schools and newer housing developments.
If you do plan to relocate soon, consider hiring a professional moving company in Des Moines to ensure a smooth transition into whichever neighborhood feels like home.
Cost of Living
A significant factor in determining whether a city is a good place to live is affordability. According to a 2022 cost of living analysis, Des Moines scores around 81.2 on the Cost of Living Index (where 100 is the national average), making it a more budget-friendly option than many larger U.S. cities. This affordability extends across several areas:
- Housing Costs: The median home value in Des Moines was about $190,000 in late 2022, although prices can vary depending on the neighborhood. Even with rising demand, you can often find larger spaces and better amenities for less money compared to coastal or major metropolitan areas.
- Rental Market: If you’re not ready to buy, the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in central Des Moines hovers around $900–$1,100 per month. Suburban areas can be a bit lower or higher, depending on proximity to top schools and neighborhood amenities.
- Groceries and Transportation: Everyday expenses, like groceries and gasoline, tend to be affordable. Public transportation is available through the Des Moines Area Regional Transit (DART) system, which serves the metro. Many residents still opt for personal vehicles, benefiting from cheaper parking and lower levels of traffic compared to bigger cities.
Financially, this data positions Des Moines as an attractive choice for those looking to stretch their dollar further without sacrificing quality of life.
Education and Family-Oriented Living
For families, one of the top questions tends to be: “How good are the schools?” The Des Moines metro area includes some of the state’s highest-rated public school districts. Suburbs like Waukee, Johnston, and West Des Moines often top statewide rankings for educational excellence, with high graduation rates and robust Advanced Placement (AP) offerings.
- Public Schools: According to the Iowa Department of Education, graduation rates in some suburban districts consistently hover above 90%. Many schools also emphasize extracurriculars, from sports teams to arts programs, ensuring that students receive a well-rounded experience.
- Higher Education: Colleges like Drake University and Grand View University add to the city’s educational landscape. Drake, in particular, is known for its law and pharmacy programs and contributes to local cultural and sporting events—like the annual Drake Relays track and field meet.
- Children’s Activities: Family fun extends beyond the classroom, too. Des Moines hosts countless events, including the Iowa State Fair (which draws more than a million visitors each year) and the Downtown Farmers’ Market, one of the largest in the Midwest. There are also interactive museums like the Science Center of Iowa and multiple libraries that offer year-round youth programs.
If you’re moving with children, the sense of community and extensive array of family-friendly activities can alleviate a lot of the stress of relocating.
Outdoor Recreation and Green Spaces
Des Moines offers a surprising amount of natural beauty and outdoor activities for a mid-sized urban setting. Whether you’re an avid cyclist, a weekend hiker, or a family looking for a scenic spot to picnic, you’ll find plenty of options:
- Gray’s Lake Park: Located near downtown, this 167-acre park features a 1.9-mile trail around the lake. It’s an ideal spot for walking, jogging, or simply soaking in the waterfront views.
- Raccoon River Park: In West Des Moines, you’ll find a 500-acre area with a beach, trails, and a dog park. Summer weekends can be spent boating or enjoying a lakeside barbecue with friends.
- High Trestle Trail: This 25-mile trail is famous for its illuminated bridge that stands 13 stories high above the Des Moines River Valley. It’s become a popular destination for cyclists and pedestrians, especially at night.
According to the Trust for Public Land, Des Moines has been making strides in improving its park systems, with efforts aimed at ensuring most residents have a green space within a 10-minute walk of home. For those who enjoy four distinct seasons, Iowa’s weather offers everything from spring blooms to winter ice skating, ensuring there’s no shortage of year-round outdoor activities.
Arts, Culture, and Entertainment
It’s not just outdoor recreation that shines in Des Moines. The city also boasts a rich arts and cultural scene that’s rapidly expanding:
- Des Moines Art Center: This museum features works by notable artists like Georgia O’Keeffe, Edward Hopper, and more. Admission is free, making it accessible to all.
- Civic Center of Greater Des Moines: Broadway shows and concerts frequently stop here, giving residents a chance to catch top-tier performances without traveling to a larger city.
- Live Music and Nightlife: Places like Wooly’s in the East Village host both local talent and nationally touring bands. The city’s nightlife includes everything from upscale cocktail bars to casual craft breweries.
- Local Festivals: The Des Moines Arts Festival, which attracts around 200,000 visitors annually, showcases local and international artists. Meanwhile, the World Food & Music Festival celebrates global cuisine and cultural performances, reflecting the city’s growing diversity.
Foodies can explore a range of culinary spots—from farm-to-table restaurants featuring fresh Iowa produce to international cuisines that highlight the city’s increasing cultural tapestry. Whether you’re a craft beer aficionado or a fan of small-batch coffee roasters, Des Moines is unlikely to leave you wanting.
Is Des Moines, IA A Good Place To Live?
If you value a city that blends affordability, career opportunities, and Midwestern warmth, the answer is a resounding “yes.”
Des Moines packs a lot of perks into a manageable, stress-reduced environment. Key data points—such as a below-average cost of living, strong job market, reputable school systems, and continually improving parks—provide evidence that this city is more than just a quiet Midwestern outpost.
