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

Total population
71,083
1.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$86,594/yr
2.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
34,006
1.2% year-over-year change

West Des Moines population

How many people live in West Des Moines

West Des Moines is home to 71,083 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.2% of West Des Moines locals are male, and 50.8% are female.

Total population
71,083
1.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.2%
34,958
Female
50.8%
36,125
Value Percent YoY change
Male 34,958 49.2% -0.1%
Female 36,125 50.8% 3.5%
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 West Des Moines is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.5% are children under 15, then 12.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 31.7% of the population, while another 22.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
36
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.5%
15 to 24
12.8%
25 to 44
31.7%
45 to 64
22.9%
Over 65
15.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 12,428 17.5% 0.5%
15 to 24 9,107 12.8% 7.5%
25 to 44 22,534 31.7% 1.1%
45 to 64 16,291 22.9% -1.6%
Over 65 10,723 15.1% 4.8%
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 West Des Moines, 87.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 6.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 79.4% of locals are Caucasian, 5% are African American and 6.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
87.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
6%
Non-citizens
6.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 62,247 87.6% 2.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 4,266 6% -4.9%
Non-citizens 4,570 6.4% 3.2%
Racial breakdown
White
79.4%
Black or African American
5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
6.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6.7%
Other
2.5%
Value Percent
White 56,440 79.4%
Black or African American 3,581 5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 10 0%
Asian 4,546 6.4%
Two or more races 4,754 6.7%
Other 1,752 2.5%

Households in West Des Moines

A peek inside West Des Moines households

West Des Moines has 32,233 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 52.7% are families, while the remaining 47.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
32,233
1.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
15,238
Family households
16,995
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 15,238 47.3% 2.1%
Family households 16,995 52.7% 0.6%
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 West Des Moines

The housing landscape of West Des Moines

West Des Moines's housing consists of 34,006 units, with 45.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 12% 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 0.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
34,006
1.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 15,518 45.6%
1 unit, attached 4,065 12%
2 units 165 0.5%
3 or 4 units 659 1.9%
5 to 9 units 2,674 7.9%
10 to 19 units 3,209 9.4%
20 to 49 units 4,942 14.5%
50 or more units 2,519 7.4%
Mobile home 255 0.8%
Homes built since 2020
878
70.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in West Des Moines

In West Des Moines, the median construction year is 1994. About 4.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 19.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 16.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,433 4.2% -2.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 607 1.8% 20.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,193 6.4% 13.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,241 3.6% -5.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,940 11.6% 5.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 4,892 14.4% -11.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 6,537 19.2% -2.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 6,594 19.4% 9.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 5,691 16.7% -3.1%
Built in 2020 or later 878 2.6% 70.5%
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.

West Des Moines occupancy rates

Out of the 32,233 occupied housing units in West Des Moines, 57.4% are owner-occupied, while 42.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
32,233
1.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
13,742
Owner occupied
18,491
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 13,742 42.6% 1.2%
Owner occupied 18,491 57.4% 1.3%
Unoccupied housing units
5.2%
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.

West Des Moines housing costs

Housing costs in West Des Moines come to a median of $1,324 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,237.

Median housing costs per month
$1,324/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 West Des Moines
$1,237/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 West Des Moines

West Des Moines education at a glance

About 18.9% of the population in West Des Moines went to high school, while 17.3% pursued college studies. Another 9% earned an associate degree and 36.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 17% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 826 1.5% 2.2%
High school diploma 10,617 18.9% -2.6%
College diploma 9,715 17.3% 6.2%
Associate degree 5,036 9% -4.2%
Bachelor's degree 20,362 36.3% 4.4%
Graduate degree 9,572 17% 1.5%
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 West Des Moines

How much people earn in West Des Moines

The average annual household income in West Des Moines was $123,759 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $86,594, reflecting a +2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in West Des Moines
$123,759/year
2.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in West Des Moines
$86,594/year
2.0% year-over-year change

West Des Moines income by age

In West 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 $87,221. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $120,762 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $51,042, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $67,044 in earnings. Overall, 91.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $51,042 -7.3%
25 - 44 $87,221 2.9%
45 - 64 $120,762 7.6%
Over 65 $67,044 2.8%
Above poverty level
63,921
Below poverty level
5,919
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 63,921 91.5% 0.3%
Below poverty level 5,919 8.5% 17.9%

Average renter income in West Des Moines

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in West Des Moines, their median household income was $56,489 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 26.3%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$56,489
Rent-to-income ratio
26.3%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in West Des Moines

Workforce and job types in West Des Moines

The job market in West Des Moines is powered by 40,819 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 87.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 12.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.9% run their own businesses, 71.7% are employed by private companies, and 11.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
40,819
0.3% year-over-year change
White collar
35,588
Blue collar
5,231
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 35,588 87.2% 0.3%
Blue collar 5,231 12.8% 0.1%
Employer type
Self employees
6.9%
Private companies
71.7%
Governmental workers
11.3%
Not for profit companies
10.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,814 6.9% -16.2%
Private companies 29,256 71.7% 2.2%
Governmental workers 4,602 11.3% -0.5%
Not for profit companies 4,147 10.2% 0.9%
Unemployment rate
2.4%
-3.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in West Des Moines stands at 2.4%, 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 West Des Moines

How people get around in West Des Moines

Commuting methods vary: 77.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 31,216 77.8% -1.8%
Taxicab 329 0.8% 8.9%
Bus or trolleybus 220 0.6% 105.6%
Ferryboat 8 0% 0.0%
Motorcycle 20 0% 17.6%
Bicycle 68 0.2% 41.7%
Walk 306 0.8% -30.9%
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 West Des Moines by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
50265 33,488 14,769 $85,915 $126,014
50266 37,523 17,459 $87,025 $121,836

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FAQs about West Des Moines demographics 

What is the total population of West Des Moines?

West Des Moines has a total population of 71,083 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 +1.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in West Des Moines?

The gender ratio in West Des Moines is as follows:
  • 49.2% males (34,958 residents)
  • 50.8% females (36,125 residents)

What is the median age in West Des Moines?

The median age in West Des Moines is 36.

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

The age distribution in West Des Moines is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.5% (12,428 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.8% (9,107 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 31.7% (22,534 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.9% (16,291 residents)
  • Over 65: 15.1% (10,723 residents)

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

The racial and ethnic makeup of West Des Moines is as follows:
  • White: 79.4% (56,440 residents)
  • Black or African American: 5% (3,581 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (10 residents)
  • Asian: 6.4% (4,546 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.7% (4,754 residents)
  • Other: 2.5% (1,752 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 87.6% of the population in West Des Moines.

How many housing units are there in West Des Moines?

There are 34,006 housing units in West Des Moines, reflecting a +1.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

West Des Moines has a total of 32,233 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in West Des Moines?

West Des Moines has a median household income of $86,594, representing a +2.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 97.6% in West Des Moines, with a workforce of 40,819 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 87.2% (35,588 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 12.8% (5,231 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.9% (2,814 residents)
  • Private companies: 71.7% (29,256 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.3% (4,602 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.2% (4,147 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