Moving to Des Moines, IA

Des Moines, Iowa has become an attractive option for relocating families and professionals in 2026. With a population of 214,237, the city offers strong opportunities in Insurance, Financial Services, Healthcare. The affordable cost of living combines with improving community development and suburban character with room to grow. Whether you're relocating for a job opportunity, seeking a change of scenery, or planning retirement, understanding Des Moines's unique characteristics will help you make an informed decision and plan a successful move.

Understanding Des Moines's cost structure is essential for planning your move. The city's Cost of Living Index of 86.8 means you'll enjoy savings of about 13% compared to the national average. **Housing Costs:** The median home price is $282,040, while renters pay approximately $1,137 for a 1-bedroom and $1,478 for a 2-bedroom apartment. The housing market offers reasonable options across various price points. **Income Considerations:** The median household income in Des Moines is $54,394. Salaries are in line with the cost of living.

The cost of your move to Des Moines depends on distance, timing, and inventory size. **Inbound**: Moving TO Des Moines averages $1,603 for a 2BR. **Outbound**: Moving FROM Des Moines averages $1,603.

Beyond the numbers, Des Moines offers a distinct lifestyle that attracts residents from across the country. **Safety:** With a safety score of 58/100, Des Moines is comparable to national averages. Crime rates vary significantly by neighborhood - research specific areas before choosing where to live. **Walkability:** The city scores 52/100 for walkability. Some neighborhoods are walkable, but most residents own vehicles. **Commute:** The average commute is 28 minutes. Commute times are reasonable across most of the city.

**Key industries**: Insurance, Financial Services, Healthcare, Agribusiness, Publishing. **Major employers**: Principal Financial Group, Nationwide, Wells Fargo, MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center, UnityPoint Health - Des Moines.

A successful move requires planning. Here are Des Moines-specific considerations: **Access Challenges:** Moving truck access in Des Moines can be challenging in older, historic neighborhoods like Sherman Hill and the Historic East Village, where streets are often narrower and parking is limited. Downtown Des Moines also presents difficulties with one-way streets, metered parking, and fewer dedicated loading zones, particularly around popular commercial corridors. Navigating larger vehicles through these areas requires careful planning to avoid congestion and ensure safe unloading. Discuss these with your moving company to avoid surprise fees. **Parking:** In Des Moines, moving-day parking primarily involves adhering to standard city regulations. Downtown areas and commercial corridors often have metered parking with time limits, requiring vigilance to avoid citations. In residential neighborhoods, street parking is generally available, but movers must always observe posted signs for any specific restrictions, such as "no parking" zones, fire hydrants, or driveways. While dedicated moving permits for street parking are not common, temporary street closures for large moves would require specific permits from the City of Des Moines Public Works Department. Secure permits well in advance. **DMV and Registration:** You'll have 30-60 days (varies by state) to update your driver's license and vehicle registration after establishing IA residency. **Finding Your Neighborhood:** With diverse neighborhoods to choose from, consider renting short-term first to find the right fit before committing to a long-term lease or purchase. For general utility-setup and pre-move admin steps, see our [Complete Moving Guide](/guide).

Des Moines offers a balanced Midwestern lifestyle, blending urban amenities with a friendly, community-focused atmosphere. The burgeoning food scene is celebrated at events like the Downtown Farmers' Market, one of the largest in the Midwest, and features local favorites such as Exile Brewing Co. and numerous farm-to-table restaurants along Ingersoll Avenue. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy extensive green spaces, including Gray's Lake Park with its popular trail and water activities, and the Pappajohn Sculpture Park downtown. Cultural life is anchored by the Des Moines Art Center and the Des Moines Civic Center, hosting Broadway shows and concerts. A notable local quirk is the strong sense of "Iowa Nice," fostering a welcoming environment, complemented by major regional draws like the annual Iowa State Fair just outside the city.

For the full pre-move timeline (8 weeks out, 6 weeks out, 4 weeks out, moving day, first week, first month), see our [Complete Moving Guide](/guide). Below, get a personalized cost estimate for your Des Moines move: