Living in Des Moines, IA, is like being a member of a neighborhood experiencing rapid growth. For the past two decades, the city and its surrounds have grown into a thriving urban and suburban hub. People come here to enjoy fantastic food, culture, festivals, and work opportunities. Des Moines has evolved from the "state capital of a flyover state" to a vibrant metropolis. There are plenty of refurbished lofts and gourmet attractions in the city. The annual festivals are also on par with some of the country's larger metropolitan areas. These factors contribute to the appeal of living in Des Moines, Iowa. Check out the hottest housing developments in Des Moines here.
Quick Facts
- Des Moines was first known as Fort Raccoon. The name changed to Fort Des Moines and then became Des Moines in 1857.
- Des Moines has a median household income of $69,074 and a poverty rate of 16.07%.
- In recent years, the median rental rate has been $855 per month, with a median house value of $133,200.
- Des Moines' population is now falling at a rate of -0.83% each year, but it has climbed by 1.92% since the most recent census.
- Des Moines has a population of 208,966.
Des Moines, IA in a Nutshell
This capital of the so-called flyover state may not be on everyone's bucket list. But, Des Moines is an excellent area to live and raise a family. There are elegant colonial and Tudor-style homes erected in the early 1900s. These are in districts minutes from the downtown, where there are also lofts and condos. Many families with children prefer to live in the suburbs. But, some prefer waiting for new housing developments that are springing up. Des Moines has a lot to offer for entertainment and recreation, such as festivals. Cultural activities and festivals attract visitors of all ages to the downtown area. Unique stores, eateries, and fashionable pubs liven up entertainment districts in the city. Additionally, there are many bike routes, parks, and lakes for outdoor recreation.
Economy
It is no secret that many places in the United States suffer from unemployment, but not Des Moines. This city has above-average job growth of 37.5% projected over the next ten years. The city also has one of the country's lowest unemployment rates of 4.6%, which is lower than the national average. There is also lots of career diversity in the city with these in mind. Additionally, Des Moines' cost of living is lower than the national average of around 8.1%. Des Moines is a major insurance hub and a large financial services and publishing sector. Over 80 insurance businesses hire thousands of people in Des Moines. These employers help to keep the average wage near the national average of $50,000. Logistics and distribution are also two other essential businesses in the city.
Employment
There are employments in advanced manufacturing and data centers in Des Moines. Insurance and financial services are also among the important businesses in the city. Des Moines is also a top city for people working in technology and a terrific city for teachers. Des Moines is also excellent for people to start their own business if they enjoy blazing their own path. Living in Des Moines also provides access to many job opportunities. There are almost 60 corporations headquartered in or near the city. This scenario is because business in this region is 15% cheaper than the national average. The reduced expenses make it an attractive location for enterprises to establish themselves. Startups that need more cheap solutions to support their growth will thrive in the city. There are endless opportunities in the insurance industry's epicenter and agricultural enterprises. Financial services, distribution and logistics, healthcare, and publishing also offer options for work.
Real Estate in Des Moines, IA
Des Moines' housing prices are lower than the national average. Downtown home prices are also reasonable. But, in suburban communities like West Des Moines and Urbandale, property prices rise. Des Moines' housing costs are low, and many people appreciate the rates it provides. The median home value is $133,200, far below the national average of $227,025. Home values have been rising non-stop in the last year, and experts predict a 6.7 % increase in the coming years. Because of the low property prices in Iowa, many more people buy than rent. But, those who want to rent will pay an average monthly rent of $855-$1000. Many of the older, historic communities outside Des Moines' are the most expensive. Whether renting or buying, these regions, like Waterbury or Waveland Heights, become pricey. Fairground, King-Irving Park, Kirkwood Glen, and Cheatom Park are the least costly neighborhoods.
Real Estate Trends
There are many housing alternatives in Des Moines for those who wish to live there. There is a wide range of home styles in the city, from fashionable lofts to century mansions. But, many people are flocking to surrounding towns and suburbs with the rental boom. Single-story apartment homes are becoming more popular for couples not ready to buy. A single-story apartment rental home has the feel of a traditional owned home. But, it has the layout of a trendy downtown high-rise condo that is famous these days. These apartment homes are roomy, with more storage and green area. These homes even go for a price equal to living in a high-rise apartment.
There are 1,247 properties for sale in the city's neighborhood, with prices ranging from $1 to $5.6 million. Des Moines provides good-priced condos and townhomes. On average, homes in Des Moines sell after 49 days on the market. The median days on the market in Des Moines have decreased from last month and last year.
Final Thoughts
Moving to Des Moines will change and alter one's life for the better. Des Moines is excellent to advance one's profession and enjoy the activities available. The city is full of intriguing, active communities, and it is one of the cities in the country with a low cost of living. But, some people relocating to the Midwest believe that the culture will be different. Des Moines defies these and other clichés. It is Iowa's capital and the hub of much of the state's economic and cultural activity. This lovely Midwestern city offers the best of both worlds. Des Moines provides a small-town, big-life feel. So, while some may consider Iowa a fly-over state, Des Moines has much more to offer than meets the eye.
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