Greater Des Moines, Central Iowa, IA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
225,642
1.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$101,389/yr
4.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
90,280
2.4% year-over-year change

Greater Des Moines population

How many people live in Greater Des Moines

Greater Des Moines is home to 225,642 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.7% of Greater Des Moines locals are male, and 50.3% are female.

Total population
225,642
1.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.7%
112,051
Female
50.3%
113,591
Value Percent YoY change
Male 112,051 49.7% 1.4%
Female 113,591 50.3% 2.4%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Greater Des Moines is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 21.8% are children under 15, then 11.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.3% of the population, while another 24% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
21.8%
15 to 24
11.5%
25 to 44
28.3%
45 to 64
24%
Over 65
14.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 49,102 21.8% -0.3%
15 to 24 25,982 11.5% 2.7%
25 to 44 63,773 28.3% 1.9%
45 to 64 54,245 24% 2.2%
Over 65 32,540 14.4% 4.0%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Greater Des Moines, 91% of the population are US-born citizens, while 5.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 82.4% of locals are Caucasian, 5.5% are African American and 4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
91%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
5.1%
Non-citizens
3.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 205,352 91% 1.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 11,524 5.1% -0.3%
Non-citizens 8,766 3.9% 10.6%
Racial breakdown
White
82.4%
Black or African American
5.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.7%
Other
2.1%
Value Percent
White 185,952 82.4%
Black or African American 12,329 5.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 669 0.3%
Asian 9,018 4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 34 0%
Two or more races 12,895 5.7%
Other 4,744 2.1%

Households in Greater Des Moines

A peek inside Greater Des Moines households

Greater Des Moines has 86,252 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 69.3% are families, while the remaining 30.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
86,252
2.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
26,458
Family households
59,794
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 26,458 30.7% 3.0%
Family households 59,794 69.3% 2.0%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Greater Des Moines

The housing landscape of Greater Des Moines

Greater Des Moines's housing consists of 90,280 units, with 68.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 9.6% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 1.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
90,280
2.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 62,177 68.9%
1 unit, attached 8,700 9.6%
2 units 1,104 1.2%
3 or 4 units 1,230 1.4%
5 to 9 units 2,720 3%
10 to 19 units 4,215 4.7%
20 to 49 units 5,365 5.9%
50 or more units 3,010 3.3%
Mobile home 1,669 1.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 91 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
4,151
49.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Greater Des Moines

In Greater Des Moines, the median construction year is 1995. About 5.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 19.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 20.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 4.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 5,184 5.7% -0.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2,020 2.2% 8.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 5,655 6.3% 5.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 6,035 6.7% 3.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 10,551 11.7% 0.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 6,795 7.5% 0.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 13,762 15.2% 0.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 17,887 19.8% -1.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 18,242 20.2% 1.3%
Built in 2020 or later 4,151 4.6% 49.9%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Greater Des Moines occupancy rates

Out of the 86,252 occupied housing units in Greater Des Moines, 76.2% are owner-occupied, while 23.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 4.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
86,252
2.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
20,489
Owner occupied
65,763
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 20,489 23.8% -0.0%
Owner occupied 65,763 76.2% 3.1%
Unoccupied housing units
4.5%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Greater Des Moines housing costs

Housing costs in Greater Des Moines come to a median of $1,512 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,226.

Median housing costs per month
$1,512/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Greater Des Moines
$1,226/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Greater Des Moines

Greater Des Moines education at a glance

About 26.6% of the population in Greater Des Moines went to high school, while 18.7% pursued college studies. Another 9.7% earned an associate degree and 28.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 14.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 3,836 2.3% 10.7%
High school diploma 44,221 26.6% 0.1%
College diploma 31,022 18.7% 1.4%
Associate degree 16,070 9.7% 1.2%
Bachelor's degree 46,879 28.2% 2.6%
Graduate degree 24,005 14.5% 7.8%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Greater Des Moines

How much people earn in Greater Des Moines

The average annual household income in Greater Des Moines was $127,133 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $101,389, reflecting a +4.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Greater Des Moines
$127,133/year
1.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Greater Des Moines
$101,389/year
4.8% year-over-year change

Greater Des Moines income by age

In Greater Des Moines, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $117,391. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $131,889 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $69,945, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $63,384 in earnings. Overall, 92.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $69,945 10.2%
25 - 44 $117,391 4.8%
45 - 64 $131,889 3.4%
Over 65 $63,384 4.3%
Above poverty level
203,350
Below poverty level
16,735
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 203,350 92.4% 1.2%
Below poverty level 16,735 7.6% 11.1%

Employment in Greater Des Moines

Workforce and job types in Greater Des Moines

82.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 17.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9% run their own businesses, 67.8% are employed by private companies, and 14.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
96,931
Blue collar
21,182
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 96,931 82.1% 2.4%
Blue collar 21,182 17.9% 3.2%
Employer type
Self employees
9%
Private companies
67.8%
Governmental workers
14.2%
Not for profit companies
9.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 10,588 9% 4.3%
Private companies 80,073 67.8% 1.3%
Governmental workers 16,735 14.2% 8.3%
Not for profit companies 10,717 9.1% 1.8%

Transportation in Greater Des Moines

How people get around in Greater Des Moines

In Greater Des Moines, the average commute time is 103 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 98.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
103 min
-29.4% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 93,609 98.5% 0.5%
Taxicab 143 0.2% 36.2%
Bus or trolleybus 293 0.3% -7.3%
Motorcycle 22 0% -8.3%
Bicycle 58 0.1% -38.3%
Walk 912 1% 12.4%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Greater Des Moines by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
50007 444 178 $120,417 $137,756
50009 22,886 9,077 $88,447 $109,508
50021 30,283 12,244 $99,572 $130,636
50023 46,306 17,717 $117,826 $127,017
50032 707 267 $0 $78,441
50035 10,131 3,548 $134,906 $133,644
50073 1,208 531 $100,972 $128,286
50111 16,865 6,292 $120,769 $130,157
50131 24,583 9,361 $106,551 $149,870
50169 3,667 1,133 $83,938 $94,153

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FAQs about Greater Des Moines demographics 

What is the total population of Greater Des Moines?

Greater Des Moines has a total population of 225,642 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +1.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Greater Des Moines?

The gender ratio in Greater Des Moines is as follows:
  • 49.7% males (112,051 residents)
  • 50.3% females (113,591 residents)

What is the median age in Greater Des Moines?

The median age in Greater Des Moines is 37.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Greater Des Moines?

The age distribution in Greater Des Moines is as follows:
  • Under 15: 21.8% (49,102 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.5% (25,982 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.3% (63,773 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24% (54,245 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.4% (32,540 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Greater Des Moines?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Greater Des Moines is as follows:
  • White: 82.4% (185,952 residents)
  • Black or African American: 5.5% (12,329 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (669 residents)
  • Asian: 4% (9,018 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (34 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.7% (12,895 residents)
  • Other: 2.1% (4,744 residents)

What percentage of the population in Greater Des Moines are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 91% of the population in Greater Des Moines.

How many housing units are there in Greater Des Moines?

There are 90,280 housing units in Greater Des Moines, reflecting a +2.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Greater Des Moines and what is the average household size?

Greater Des Moines has a total of 86,252 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Greater Des Moines?

Greater Des Moines has a median household income of $101,389, representing a +4.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Greater Des Moines?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 82.1% (96,931 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 17.9% (21,182 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9% (10,588 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.8% (80,073 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.2% (16,735 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.1% (10,717 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025