Des Moines, WA
Population 32,545 · Washington
About Des Moines, WA
Des Moines is a mid-sized city in Washington with a population of 32,545 residents. The median household income is $89,787 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Des Moines is 37.5 years.
Housing in Des Moines has a median home value of $539,800 and median monthly rent of $1,727. Of the 12,740 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 7,338 owner-occupied and 4,728 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Des Moines is 7.2% and the poverty rate is 10.7%. 33.2% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 30.6 minutes.
How Des Moines Ranks in Washington
Cost of Living in Des Moines, WA
Compared to national averages, Des Moines has a median household income of $89,787 (19% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $539,800, which is 120% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,727 is 48% above the US average of $1,163. Within Washington, Des Moines's income is 1% below the state average of $90,795, and home values are 17% above the state median of $460,491.
Why Live in Des Moines, WA?
Des Moines offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $89,787, well above the national average, and a low poverty rate of 10.7%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $539,800. However, Des Moines’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Des Moines has a population of 32,545 with a median age of 37.5 years. Compare Des Moines with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Washington.
Similar Cities Near Des Moines
Cities in Washington with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pullman | 31,939 | $45,097 | $401,700 | Compare |
| Walla Walla | 33,766 | $65,493 | $356,600 | Compare |
| SeaTac | 31,143 | $76,517 | $483,200 | Compare |
| Spanaway | 34,322 | $94,028 | $401,000 | Compare |
| University Place | 34,850 | $94,952 | $578,100 | Compare |
| Graham | 35,090 | $115,501 | $472,800 | Compare |
| Mount Vernon | 35,312 | $73,277 | $429,300 | Compare |
| Orchards | 29,716 | $96,893 | $437,100 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Washington
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, WA?
The population of Des Moines, WA is 32,545 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Des Moines?
The median household income in Des Moines, WA is $89,787 per year.
What is the median home value in Des Moines?
The median home value in Des Moines, WA is $539,800.
What is the average rent in Des Moines?
The median monthly rent in Des Moines, WA is $1,727.
What is the unemployment rate in Des Moines?
The unemployment rate in Des Moines, WA is 7.2%.