Downtown Des Moines, Des Moines, IA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
6,048
9.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$56,777/yr
-2.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
4,827
6.7% year-over-year change

Downtown Des Moines population

How many people live in Downtown Des Moines

Downtown Des Moines is home to 6,048 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 52% of Downtown Des Moines locals are male, and 48% are female.

Total population
6,048
9.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
52%
3,143
Female
48%
2,906
Value Percent YoY change
Male 3,143 52% 15.0%
Female 2,906 48% 4.9%
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 Downtown Des Moines is 28, with the population distributed as follows: about 6.1% are children under 15, then 26.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 46.9% of the population, while another 13.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 6.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
28.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
6.1%
15 to 24
26.6%
25 to 44
46.9%
45 to 64
13.9%
Over 65
6.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 367 6.1% 216.4%
15 to 24 1,606 26.6% 12.2%
25 to 44 2,835 46.9% 4.2%
45 to 64 842 13.9% 2.2%
Over 65 398 6.6% -3.2%
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 Downtown Des Moines, 91.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 66.6% of locals are Caucasian, 17% are African American and 3.8% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 11.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
91.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.7%
Non-citizens
4.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 5,509 91.1% 12.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 286 4.7% 9.6%
Non-citizens 254 4.2% -28.4%
Racial breakdown
White
66.6%
Black or African American
17%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
3.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
11.9%
Other
0.7%
Value Percent
White 4,030 66.6%
Black or African American 1,025 17%
American Indian and Alaska Native 5 0.1%
Asian 227 3.8%
Two or more races 718 11.9%
Other 43 0.7%

Households in Downtown Des Moines

A peek inside Downtown Des Moines households

Downtown Des Moines has 4,280 households, with an average of 1 members in each. Of these, 13.6% are families, while the remaining 86.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
4,280
9.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
1
Non-family households
3,698
Family households
581
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,698 86.4% 6.5%
Family households 581 13.6% 28.5%
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 Downtown Des Moines

The housing landscape of Downtown Des Moines

Downtown Des Moines's housing consists of 4,827 units, with 4.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.6% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
4,827
6.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 224 4.6%
1 unit, attached 172 3.6%
2 units 12 0.2%
3 or 4 units 115 2.4%
5 to 9 units 92 1.9%
10 to 19 units 121 2.5%
20 to 49 units 1,689 35%
50 or more units 2,366 49%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 36 0.8%
Homes built since 2020
110
254.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Downtown Des Moines

In Downtown Des Moines, the median construction year is 1992. About 24.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 6.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 37.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,198 24.8% -3.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 63 1.3% -3.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 114 2.4% 10.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 158 3.3% -13.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 540 11.2% -7.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 302 6.3% -10.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 208 4.3% 0.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 319 6.6% -3.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,815 37.6% 26.3%
Built in 2020 or later 110 2.3% 254.8%
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.

Downtown Des Moines occupancy rates

Out of the 4,280 occupied housing units in Downtown Des Moines, 10.6% are owner-occupied, while 89.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 11.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
4,280
9.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,826
Owner occupied
454
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,826 89.4% 10.4%
Owner occupied 454 10.6% -1.3%
Unoccupied housing units
11.3%
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.

Downtown Des Moines housing costs

Housing costs in Downtown Des Moines come to a median of $1,242 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,223.

Median housing costs per month
$1,242/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 Downtown Des Moines
$1,223/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 Downtown Des Moines

Downtown Des Moines education at a glance

About 15.2% of the population in Downtown Des Moines went to high school, while 11.3% pursued college studies. Another 8.4% earned an associate degree and 46.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 15.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 131 2.3% -0.8%
High school diploma 862 15.2% 13.4%
College diploma 640 11.3% -17.7%
Associate degree 473 8.4% 79.2%
Bachelor's degree 2,654 46.9% 8.2%
Graduate degree 894 15.8% -8.4%
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 Downtown Des Moines

How much people earn in Downtown Des Moines

The average annual household income in Downtown Des Moines was $75,632 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -2.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $56,777, reflecting a -2.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Downtown Des Moines
$75,632/year
-2.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Downtown Des Moines
$56,777/year
-2.1% year-over-year change

Downtown Des Moines income by age

In Downtown 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 $64,552. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $49,347 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $55,546, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $22,553 in earnings. Overall, 81.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $55,546 8.1%
25 - 44 $64,552 -10.9%
45 - 64 $49,347 4.6%
Over 65 $22,553 3.4%
Above poverty level
4,920
Below poverty level
1,122
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 4,920 81.4% 8.2%
Below poverty level 1,122 18.6% 19.5%

Employment in Downtown Des Moines

Workforce and job types in Downtown Des Moines

The job market in Downtown Des Moines is powered by 4,510 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 90.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 9.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 3.8% run their own businesses, 72.3% are employed by private companies, and 9.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
4,510
5.0% year-over-year change
White collar
4,070
Blue collar
440
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 4,070 90.2% 1.2%
Blue collar 440 9.8% 61.2%
Employer type
Self employees
3.8%
Private companies
72.3%
Governmental workers
9.8%
Not for profit companies
14.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 171 3.8% -25.3%
Private companies 3,260 72.3% 10.9%
Governmental workers 442 9.8% 2.8%
Not for profit companies 637 14.1% -8.6%
Unemployment rate
4.4%
8.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Downtown Des Moines stands at 4.4%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Downtown Des Moines

How people get around in Downtown Des Moines

In Downtown Des Moines, the average commute time is 8 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 85.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 12.6% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
8 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 2,986 85.6% 4.4%
Bus or trolleybus 14 0.4% -83.1%
Bicycle 49 1.4% 4.3%
Walk 438 12.6% -4.6%
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 Downtown Des Moines by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
50309 10,110 7,154 $56,777 $79,702

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FAQs about Downtown Des Moines demographics 

What is the total population of Downtown Des Moines?

Downtown Des Moines has a total population of 6,048 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 +9.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Downtown Des Moines?

The gender ratio in Downtown Des Moines is as follows:
  • 52% males (3,143 residents)
  • 48% females (2,906 residents)

What is the median age in Downtown Des Moines?

The median age in Downtown Des Moines is 28.4.

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

The age distribution in Downtown Des Moines is as follows:
  • Under 15: 6.1% (367 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 26.6% (1,606 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 46.9% (2,835 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 13.9% (842 residents)
  • Over 65: 6.6% (398 residents)

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

The racial and ethnic makeup of Downtown Des Moines is as follows:
  • White: 66.6% (4,030 residents)
  • Black or African American: 17% (1,025 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (5 residents)
  • Asian: 3.8% (227 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% ( residents)
  • Two or More Races: 11.9% (718 residents)
  • Other: 0.7% (43 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 91.1% of the population in Downtown Des Moines.

How many housing units are there in Downtown Des Moines?

There are 4,827 housing units in Downtown Des Moines, reflecting a +6.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Downtown Des Moines has a total of 4,280 households, with an average of 1 people in each.

What is the median household income in Downtown Des Moines?

Downtown Des Moines has a median household income of $56,777, representing a -2.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Downtown Des Moines?

The employment rate is 95.6% in Downtown Des Moines, with a workforce of 4,510 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 90.2% (4,070 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 9.8% (440 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 3.8% (171 residents)
  • Private companies: 72.3% (3,260 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 9.8% (442 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 14.1% (637 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