Life in Des Moines
Des Moines is the fastest-growing metropolitan area in the Midwest, with just over 217,000 people. It is a city where residents enjoy a fabulous work/life balance, with easy commutes to work, welcoming communities, and award-winning arts and entertainment. There is also an abundance of sporting events, walking trails, parks, and community events, making Des Moines an ideal place to live for families.
Affordable Cost of Living
One of the most attractive qualities of living in Des Moines is the affordable housing. Home prices are 20% lower than the national average, and rent is nearly 50% lower. You will also notice savings in utilities, food, transportation, healthcare, and consumer goods. This means your paycheck will certainly stretch further in Des Moines.
Thriving Economy
Des Moines is an excellent city for young professionals or those looking to expand their careers. What’s more, your paycheck will go further here, thanks to high salaries and low cost of living. The city’s economy is well diversified, with industries like manufacturing, ag bioscience, and financial services. It is also a major insurance hub, second only to Hartford, Connecticut, with over 80 large firms employing 16% of the city’s workforce.
Easy Commutes
You never have to worry about spending hours in traffic when you live in Des Moines. Unlike other major cities, traffic flows very smoothly, and the average commute time is just 20 minutes. In fact, the city has no rush hour, and travel times are almost always the same, no matter what time of day it is. Though most people own a car, it is also a very bike-friendly and walkable city.
Excellent Education
Iowa proudly boasts one of the best education systems in the country, and Des Moines is considered one of the top 5 best places in the country for children. There are over 60 schools in the Des Moines area and a low student/teacher ratio, meaning students get the personal instruction they need. Iowa maintains the highest public high school graduation rate in the nation, and student ACT and SAT scores are among the best in the country. From elementary through high school and even on to college, Des Moines exceeds expectations with world-class education.
So Much to Do
Des Moines is packed with plenty of exciting things to see and do. From access to the outdoors to cultural events, the city boasts a number of attractions.
- Hiking and biking: Des Moines has over 800 miles of trails, including the High Trestle Trail and the Racoon River Valley Trail, which runs through Iowa’s prairies, woodlands, and farmlands. These trails are perfect for walking, jogging, or bike riding.
- Water sports: With 34 lakes in and around the city, there are plenty of opportunities for swimming, sailing, kayaking, canoeing, or paddle boarding.
- Fishing: Des Moines’ lakes and rivers are perfect for fishing. They are ideal for catching bluegill, channel catfish, and largemouth bass.
- Golf: There are over 15 golf courses in Des Moines, including the Tournament Club of Iowa, designed by professional golfer Arnold Palmer.
- Pappajohn Sculpture Park: This massive modern art display is located downtown and features over two dozen works by major artists.
- Des Moines Art Center: Explore beautiful exhibitions and various works of art from the Midwest and beyond.
- Science Center of Iowa: This hands-on museum is full of interactive exhibits that appeal to children of all ages. There are even special events for adults throughout the year.
Where to Live in Des Moines
Whether you are looking for a downtown loft, suburban home, or family-friendly neighborhood with great schools, you will find an abundance of housing options in Des Moines. Here are some of the most popular neighborhoods in the Des Moines area:
Waterbury: This charming and historic neighborhood is full of character and features homes that were built in the early 1930’s. It is one of the safest neighborhoods in Iowa and is known for its active and thriving community.
Downtown: If you want to be in the middle of all the action, you may love being Downtown. It is one of the most walkable neighborhoods packed with shops, restaurants, and some of the city’s top entertainment.
Waveland Woods: This easily accessible neighborhood is known for its affordability, local amenities, and exceptional livability. It is close to Drake University Windsor Heights, which has restaurants, grocery stores, shops, and great schools.
Salisbury Oaks: This is among the top-ranked neighborhoods in Des Moines, recognized for its excellent schools, proximity to downtown, and unique amenities.
Ready to Move to Des Moines? Allied Van Lines Can Help
Des Moines is a vibrant, welcoming, and low-cost metropolitan area that offers an excellent quality of life and a perfect place to settle down. If you are ready to make the move to Des Moines, let the professionals at Allied Van Lines assist you with your relocation. As a leader in the moving industry for more than 95 years, we know exactly how to handle and execute a seamless move. We are here to help you every step of the way, from packing and loading to transport and unpacking. Allied offers a comprehensive list of moving services to fit any budget, so call today or start by getting a free quote using our convenient Instaquote tool.