Des Moines, IA
Population 212,464 · Iowa
About Des Moines, IA
Des Moines is a major city in Iowa with a population of 212,464 residents. The median household income is $63,966 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Des Moines is 34.6 years.
Housing in Des Moines has a median home value of $183,700 and median monthly rent of $1,054. Of the 97,457 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 54,454 owner-occupied and 35,631 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Des Moines is 5.7% and the poverty rate is 14.9%. 29.0% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 19.6 minutes.
How Des Moines Ranks in Iowa
Cost of Living in Des Moines, IA
Compared to national averages, Des Moines has a median household income of $63,966 (15% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $183,700, which is 25% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,054 is 9% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Des Moines's income is 6% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 39% above the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Des Moines, IA?
Des Moines offers affordable housing with a median home value of $183,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,054/month, and short commute times averaging just 19.6 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($63,966) that falls below the national average. However, as a major city, Des Moines provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Des Moines has a population of 212,464 with a median age of 34.6 years. Compare Des Moines with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Des Moines
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cedar Rapids | 136,859 | $67,859 | $177,100 | Compare |
| Davenport | 101,083 | $64,497 | $162,900 | Compare |
| Sioux City | 85,651 | $65,473 | $162,600 | Compare |
| Iowa City | 75,264 | $57,533 | $273,600 | Compare |
| Ankeny | 70,542 | $106,603 | $311,300 | Compare |
| West Des Moines | 69,893 | $84,925 | $286,300 | Compare |
| Waterloo | 66,947 | $56,344 | $150,200 | Compare |
| Ames | 66,112 | $60,102 | $263,800 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Iowa
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Des Moines
What is the population of Des Moines, IA?
The population of Des Moines, IA is 212,464 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Des Moines?
The median household income in Des Moines, IA is $63,966 per year.
What is the median home value in Des Moines?
The median home value in Des Moines, IA is $183,700.
What is the average rent in Des Moines?
The median monthly rent in Des Moines, IA is $1,054.
What is the unemployment rate in Des Moines?
The unemployment rate in Des Moines, IA is 5.7%.