Living & Working in Des Moines
Rent vs. Buy Analysis
Median home price is $210,992 . Buying analysis suggests favorable conditions for long-term residents due to stable home values.
Neighborhoods by Value & Commute
Ankeny
SUBURBANWest Des Moines
SUBURBANQuick Decision Guide
Major HVAC Employers
Top-Rated School Districts in Des Moines, IA
- Ankeny Community School District: Consistently ranked among the best in the area, known for strong academic programs. Source: Niche
- Waukee Community School District: Highly rated for student achievement and extracurricular opportunities. Source: US News
- Urbandale School District: Praised for its inclusive environment and quality education. Source: Reddit
Childcare Costs in Des Moines, IA
- Daycare: Average cost for an infant is approximately $1,700/month ($425/week). Source: Reddit
- Nanny: Rates vary but typically range from $2,000 to $3,000/month for full-time care. Source: Iowa HHS
Work-Life Balance Culture
Des Moines is known for its strong work-life balance, with a culture that prioritizes community and family time. The city's low cost of living and manageable commute times (average 20 minutes) contribute to this. Major employers like Principal Financial Group and Wells Fargo offer flexible work arrangements, and coworking spaces like Gravitate (gravitatedsm.com) cater to remote workers.
Fitness Facilities
- Gyms:
- Lifetime Fitness: Monthly membership starts at $129. Located in West Des Moines.
- Genesis Health Clubs: $40/month for basic access. Multiple locations, including downtown.
- Parks & Trails:
- Gray's Lake Park: Free access, features a 2-mile loop trail.
- High Trestle Trail: A 25-mile trail with a famous illuminated bridge, free to use.
Dining Costs
- Lunch: $10–$15 at casual spots like Zombie Burger (burgers) or Malo (Mexican).
- Dinner: $20–$40 per person at mid-range restaurants like Django (French) or Alba (American).
- Drinks: $5–$8 for beer, $10–$12 for cocktails at bars like The Continental or
Financial Facts for Des Moines, IA
- State Income Tax Rate: Iowa has a progressive income tax system with rates ranging from 4.40% to 6.00% for 2023, depending on income brackets. The top rate applies to incomes over $75,000 for single filers and $150,000 for joint filers. For more details, refer to the Iowa Department of Revenue.
- Property Tax Average: The average effective property tax rate in Des Moines (Polk County) is approximately 1.49%, higher than the national average of 0.90%. For example, a home valued at $200,000 would incur annual property taxes of around $2,980. Additional information is available from the Polk County Auditor.
- Cost of Living Comparison: Des Moines is approximately 10% lower in overall cost of living compared to nearby major cities like Chicago, IL. Housing costs are notably lower, with median home prices around $220,000 versus Chicago's $300,000+. For a detailed comparison, visit [Bankrate's Cost of Living Calculator](https://www.bankrate.com/real-estate/cost