Considering a move to Des Moines, Iowa? This thriving Midwestern city offers an appealing mix of affordability, opportunity, and quality of life, making it an increasingly popular destination for young professionals, families, and retirees alike.
With a low cost of living, short commute times, and a strong job market, Des Moines provides a welcoming environment for those looking to stretch their budget without sacrificing amenities. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the city’s extensive trail systems and parks. Foodies can explore a rapidly growing culinary and craft beer scene. Then, add in lively events like the Iowa State Fair and a selection of top-rated school districts and neighborhoods, and it’s easy to see why so many are choosing to call Des Moines home.
Of course, no place is perfect. One potential downside is the limited public transportation, which can make getting around without a car challenging. But if you’re looking for a friendly, affordable city with plenty to offer, Des Moines might just be your ideal next home. Keep reading to discover everything you need to know before making the move, including Des Moines moving services!
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About Des Moines, IA
Des Moines, the capital and largest city of Iowa, is a vibrant Midwestern hub known for its affordability, thriving job market, and high quality of life. With a population of over 214,000, Des Moines blends urban amenities with small-town charm.
The city has a rich history as a center for government, finance, and agriculture. Today, it offers a mix of cultural attractions, outdoor recreation, and a rapidly growing food and drink scene.
Des Moines boasts excellent schools, diverse neighborhoods, and a low cost of living. This makes the city an attractive destination for families, young professionals, and retirees alike. It’s no wonder Des Moines frequently ranks among the best places to live in the United States. Whether you’re drawn to its job opportunities, outdoor activities, or welcoming community, the city of Des Moines has plenty to offer.
Pros and Cons of Moving to Des Moines, IA
Like any city, Des Moines has its advantages and drawbacks. On the plus side, it offers an affordable cost of living, short commutes, a strong job market, and plenty of outdoor and cultural attractions. However, a potential downside is limited public transportation. So, weighing these pros and cons can help you decide if Des Moines is the right fit for your lifestyle.
Pro: Cost of Living
One of the biggest advantages of living in Des Moines is its affordable cost of living, which is 9% lower than the national average. Housing costs are particularly attractive, with median home prices around $358,000. The average rent for a one−bedroom apartment is $1,100 per month, which is significantly cheaper than many other U.S. cities. Utilities, groceries, and transportation expenses also tend to be lower than average, making it easier to stretch your budget further. Whether you’re a young professional, a growing family, or a retiree, Des Moines offers a high quality of life at a reasonable price.
Pro: Easy Commute
One of the standout perks of living in Des Moines is its easy commute, with average drive times of just 20 minutes, far below the national average. The city’s efficient highway system, including the I-235 and I-80 corridors, helps maintain smooth traffic flow with minimal congestion. This compact metro layout means most residents can reach downtown workplaces, shopping centers, and entertainment districts quickly. For professionals tired of long commutes, Des Moines delivers more free time and less stress.
Pro: Job Market
Des Moines has built a reputation as a powerhouse for insurance and financial services. After all, multiple Fortune 500 companies call the city home. These industries create stable, high-quality employment opportunities across experience levels.
The city also boasts strong healthcare systems and a growing professional services sector, offering diverse career paths. What makes this job market special is how these opportunities combine with Des Moines’ affordable living. This means your salary goes further here than in many other metros.
Pro: Outdoor Recreation
Des Moines surprises visitors with its extensive network of 80+ miles of paved trails. This includes the popular Des Moines River Walk, which is perfect for cycling, running, and scenic walks. The city’s park system shines with destinations like Gray’s Lake Park, offering kayaking and paddle boarding, and the sprawling Water Works Park, known for its open-air concerts and events.
Just beyond the city, outdoor enthusiasts will find treasures like Ledges State Park. At this park, hiking trails weave through dramatic sandstone formations. With over 30 parks within city limits and multiple waterways for recreation, Des Moines delivers an impressive variety of activities for nature lovers.
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Con: Limited Public Transport
Des Moines Area Regional Transit (DART) serves as the primary public transportation system, offering bus routes that connect key areas of the city. However, there are some limitations. Coverage is most robust in downtown Des Moines and nearby urban neighborhoods, while suburban areas typically see less frequent service. Many of these routes operate hourly or only during peak times.
The system does provide useful features like free downtown circulator routes, express commuter buses to major employment centers, and real-time tracking via mobile apps. While DART works well for those living and working along core routes, most residents still rely on cars for full mobility.
The city’s walkable districts and trail network can help fill some gaps, but DART remains the backbone of public transit options in the area.
What To Do In Des Moines
Des Moines offers a vibrant mix of experiences that capture the best of Midwestern living. From scenic parks and trails to lively cultural events, the city provides plenty of ways to stay active and engaged. A growing dining scene and unique local attractions add to its charm. These factors make Des Moines easy to find new favorites in every season.
Outdoor Activities
Des Moines surprises visitors with its wealth of outdoor activities, anchored by an impressive network of trails and green spaces. The city’s crown jewel is the 88-mile Central Iowa Trail System. The trail is perfect for biking, walking, and jogging through urban and natural landscapes. Just a drive away, Ledges State Park dazzles with sandstone cliffs and wooded hiking trails. Whether you prefer waterfront relaxation or heart-pumping exploration, Des Moines delivers diverse ways to enjoy the outdoors.
Events and Fairs
Des Moines comes alive throughout the year with signature events that showcase its cultural vibrancy and Midwestern charm. The legendary Iowa State Fair is deemed one of the nation’s largest fairs. It draws visitors with its butter sculptures, live music, and iconic food creations.
The city also hosts diverse cultural celebrations, like the World Food & Music Festival. As well as popular arts events, including the Des Moines Arts Festival. The festival is recognized as one of the top festivals in the country. From neighborhood farmers’ markets to seasonal concerts in parks, there’s always something happening that brings the community together.
Growing Food and Drink Scene
Des Moines’ culinary landscape has transformed into a dynamic destination for food lovers, blending Midwestern comfort with innovative flavors. The city now boasts an exciting mix of craft breweries, specialty coffee roasters, and creative eateries that highlight local ingredients. From the authentic global cuisine at the World Food Prize Hall of Laureates to trendy food halls like The Hall, there’s something for every palate.
The thriving craft beer scene, led by breweries such as Confluence Brewing and Lua Brewing, pairs perfectly with Des Moines’ farm-fresh dining options. The city’s evolving food culture offers delicious proof of its vibrant growth.
Best Des Moines, IA Neighborhoods
Des Moines offers a variety of welcoming neighborhoods, each with its own distinct personality and appeal. From historic districts with charming character to lively urban centers full of energy, the city provides diverse options for residents. Whether you’re looking for a tight-knit community feel, convenient access to amenities, or a blend of both, you’ll find neighborhoods that cater to different lifestyles and preferences. The range of choices ensures everyone has a place to call home.
Beaverdale
Nestled in the heart of Des Moines, Beaverdale stands out as one of the city’s most beloved neighborhoods. Known for its friendly atmosphere and walkable streets, this well-established area features a mix of cozy and historic homes. Many have classic architectural details that add to their nostalgic charm.
The commercial district along Urbandale Avenue serves as the neighborhood’s hub, offering local favorites like Beaverdale Books, family-owned restaurants, and the beloved Beaverdale Fall Festival.
With highly rated public schools, easy access to parks, and a strong sense of community, it’s no surprise that Beaverdale remains a top choice for families and long-term residents alike.
Capitol East
Just east of downtown Des Moines, Capitol East blends historic charm with urban convenience at accessible price points. This walkable neighborhood features well-preserved early 20th-century homes, creating streetscapes full of character.
Residents enjoy quick access to downtown offices while benefiting from a quieter residential atmosphere. The area has seen revitalization in recent years. New cafes and businesses have been popping up near the East 14th Street corridor.
Its central location provides easy reach to the State Capitol, Principal Park, and the Des Moines River trails. With more affordable housing options than adjacent downtown and strong community organizations driving improvements, Capitol East appeals to first-time homebuyers and urban-minded renters seeking value.
Downtown Des Moines
As the thriving core of the metro, Downtown Des Moines pulses with energy, offering an exciting mix of business, culture, and entertainment. This walkable urban center features gleaming high-rises housing Fortune 500 companies alongside converted loft apartments with industrial charm.
The Historic East Village anchors the creative scene with boutique shopping and chef-driven restaurants, while the Western Gateway district dazzles with the Des Moines Art Center and Pappajohn Sculpture Park. Residents enjoy unmatched access to premier venues like the Iowa Events Center and Principal Park, plus the convenience of the skywalk system connecting offices, shops, and dining.
With new luxury apartments, buzzing nightlife on Court Avenue, and the Des Moines Social Club fostering arts engagement, downtown delivers an authentic city lifestyle that continues to evolve.
Highland Park
Tucked just north of Downtown Des Moines, Highland Park offers one of the city’s most authentic historic neighborhoods, where tree-lined streets are filled with early 1900s homes.
This tight-knit community revolves around its namesake Highland Park Business District, where old-school barbershops and family-owned diners like Drake Diner mix with new craft breweries and coffeehouses. The neighborhood’s annual art walk and summer concert series in the park highlight its creative spirit.
With affordable historic homes, quick downtown access, and one of Des Moines’ most active neighborhood associations, Highland Park delivers urban convenience with a nostalgic community feel that’s increasingly rare.
Historic East Village
Nestled along the eastern edge of downtown, the Historic East Village stands out as Des Moines’ most vibrant mix of historic charm and modern creativity. This walkable district dazzles with beautifully restored buildings now housing indie boutiques, farm-to-table eateries, and some of the city’s best cocktail bars.
The neighborhood serves as a cultural hub, home to the Iowa State Capitol’s golden dome and avant-garde spots like Raygun’s flagship store. Foodies flock to gourmet destinations like Malo (creative tacos) and Django (French comfort food), while the East Village Farmers’ Market brings local flavor every Saturday.
With its colorful street art, proximity to the Des Moines Riverwalk, and one-of-a-kind shopping, this neighborhood radiates personality at every corner.
Des Moines, IA School Districts
Des Moines offers a range of high-quality educational options, from top-rated public school districts to innovative private and charter schools.
Whether you prioritize academic excellence, extracurricular opportunities, or specialized programs, the metro area provides diverse choices to meet different learning needs. With several districts consistently earning state and national recognition, families can find exceptional education environments across Des Moines’ neighborhoods.
This section explores the strengths of local school systems, helping you make informed decisions for your child’s future.
Des Moines Independent Community School District
Iowa’s largest school district, Des Moines Independent Community School District, serves over 30,000 students across more than 60 schools, offering diverse educational opportunities tailored to urban learners.
The district is renowned for its specialized programs, including Central Academy, which is consistently ranked among the nation’s top high schools for gifted students. Additionally, innovative options like the Downtown School’s project-based curriculum.
Des Moines Independent provides comprehensive International Baccalaureate pathways, career academies in high-demand fields, and award-winning arts and athletics programs. While the district faces challenges common to urban districts, its cultural diversity (with over 100 languages spoken), 1:1 technology initiatives, and unique magnet programs make it a compelling choice for families seeking a dynamic, real-world education.
West Des Moines Community School District
West Des Moines Community School District (WDMCS) is consistently ranked among Iowa’s top-performing districts, known for its academic excellence and well-rounded student experience. Serving approximately 9,500 students across 16 schools, the district boasts some of the state’s highest graduation rates and standardized test scores.
WDMCS offers a robust curriculum enhanced by signature programs like the Walnut Creek Campus for project-based learning. The district prioritizes technology integration with 1:1 device programs and innovative spaces like the WDMCS Student Innovation Center.
With strong community support, modern facilities, and extracurricular opportunities ranging from championship athletics to award-winning music programs, West Des Moines provides a premier educational environment that prepares students for college and career success.
Des Moines, IA Moving Company
If you’re ready to make the move to Des Moines, the next step is finding the right moving company to help with your transition. UniMovers provides reliable moving services in Des Moines.
As a labor-only moving company, UniMovers offers transparent, affordable pricing without hidden fees, making your move stress-free and budget-friendly. Whether you’re relocating across town or across the state, UniMovers can help you move into your new Des Moines home with ease.
Conclusion
From its affordable cost of living and easy commutes to its thriving job market and excellent school districts, Des Moines offers an exceptional quality of life that continues to attract new residents. The city’s diverse neighborhoods provide options for every lifestyle. While the limited public transportation requires adjustment, the benefits far outweigh the compromises.
Beyond practical advantages, Des Moines surprises with its vibrant cultural scene, including outdoor recreation along scenic trails, must-visit events like the Iowa State Fair, and a rapidly growing food and drink scene. Whether you’re raising a family, advancing your career, or simply seeking a welcoming community with Midwestern values, Des Moines delivers.
Ready to make the move? Trusted services like UniMovers can make moving to Des Moines a smooth transition for you. Welcome to Des Moines, where opportunity meets quality living.
FAQs
Des Moines is becoming increasingly diverse, with minorities comprising 43.8% of the population. The city’s largest non-white groups include: African American/Black, Hispanic/Latino, and those who identified as two or more races.
Des Moines doesn’t have major pro sports teams. However, it’s home to minor-league teams like the Iowa Cubs (baseball) and Iowa Wild (hockey). College sports—especially Iowa and Iowa State—are also popular events within in day’s drive.
Winters can be harsh, with average lows in the teens and occasional subzero temperatures. Snowfall averages about 36 inches per year, so prepare for icy roads and winter gear.
Harley Green was born and raised in Holiday, Florida, and has always had a passion for storytelling, design, and strategic communication. She’s earned two Bachelor's in Integrated PR & Advertising and Creative Writing from the University of South Florida and works as a Marketing Content Writer for a Tampa clinic. When she's not working or going to class, she's watching anime, playing video games, or spending some time with her two cats, Ciri and Cana.
