Is Des Moines a Good Place to Live? Pros & Cons
Welcome to Des Moines, a city that offers a wide range of top attractions and activities for visitors and residents alike. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, art lover, or sports fan, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. From beautiful parks and botanical gardens to historical sites and art festivals, Des Moines has it all. The city’s strong economy and job opportunities make it an ideal place for professionals seeking growth and financial security. With excellent schools and a family-friendly atmosphere, Des Moines is also a great place to raise children. So come explore the city’s attractions, enjoy the cultural scene, and experience the warm community spirit that Des Moines has to offer.
Nature and Outdoor Activities in Des Moines
Des Moines offers a variety of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. The city is known for its beautiful parks and green spaces, providing ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and picnicking. Gray’s Lake Park is a popular spot for walking or jogging around the lake, while Water Works Park offers scenic trails along the river. For those who enjoy boating or fishing, Saylorville Lake and Easter Lake are close by.
In addition to parks, Des Moines boasts several botanical gardens that showcase the region’s natural beauty. The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden features an extensive collection of plants from around the world, including tropical flora and succulents. The Brenton Arboretum is another favorite spot for nature lovers, with its diverse assortment of trees and serene walking paths.
City’s History
Des Moines has a rich history that dates back to its founding in 1843. Originally a fort named Fort Des Moines during the U.S. Army’s exploration of the area, it later transformed into a thriving city. One significant event in its history was the construction of the Iowa State Capitol building in the late 19th century.
The city played a pivotal role during World War II as well, as it became home to numerous defense industries supporting the war effort. Today, visitors can explore historical sites such as Salisbury House, a historic mansion built in the 1920s, and Living History Farms, an interactive outdoor museum that depicts Iowa’s agricultural past.
Culture and Arts in Des Moines
Des Moines is known for its vibrant cultural scene and flourishing arts community. The city hosts numerous art festivals throughout the year, showcasing local talent in various art forms such as painting, sculpture, and photography.
The Civic Center in downtown Des Moines is the hub for performing arts, attracting renowned theater productions, ballet performances, and musical concerts. The Des Moines Symphony Orchestra also holds regular performances, delighting audiences with their exceptional musical talent.
For art enthusiasts, the Des Moines Art Center is a must-visit. It houses an impressive collection of contemporary artworks from both national and international artists. Additionally, the East Village neighborhood is a trendy area known for its galleries, boutique shops, and eclectic restaurants.
City Entertainment
Des Moines offers a diverse range of entertainment options for its residents. From vibrant performing arts to thrilling sports events, there is something for everyone in this lively city.
The Des Moines Performing Arts Center is a hub for theater enthusiasts, showcasing Broadway shows and other off-Broadway productions. The center also hosts various musical performances, comedy acts, and dance recitals throughout the year.
Sports fans will find plenty to cheer for in Des Moines. The Iowa Cubs, a Triple-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs, play their home games at Principal Park. Watching a baseball game here is always a fun experience, especially when complemented by delicious ballpark food.
In addition to traditional entertainment venues, Des Moines boasts a thriving music scene. Local bars and clubs regularly host live bands and musicians covering various genres like rock, country, jazz, and more.
Local Sights, Attractions, Events and Things to Do
Des Moines offers a plethora of sights and attractions that cater to different interests. Whether you enjoy exploring nature or immersing yourself in culture and history, this city has something noteworthy for you.
The Pappajohn Sculpture Park is a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts. This outdoor sculpture park showcases an impressive collection of contemporary artwork by renowned artists from around the world.
If you’re looking for family-friendly activities, the Blank Park Zoo is the perfect place to spend an enjoyable day. Home to over 1,000 animals from various habitats worldwide, the zoo provides educational experiences alongside fun interactions with wildlife.
For history buffs, the State Historical Museum offers fascinating exhibits that highlight Iowa’s past. Explore artifacts related to Native American culture, early settlements in Iowa, as well as exhibits on modern history and innovation.
Job Opportunities and Overall Economy
Des Moines boasts a strong economy with a diverse range of job opportunities across various industries. The city’s low cost of living, combined with its thriving job market, makes it an attractive place to pursue a career.
Some of the biggest employers in Des Moines include Principal Financial Group, MercyOne, UnityPoint Health, Wells Fargo, and Nationwide Insurance. These companies offer stable employment and contribute significantly to the city’s economy.
The average household income in Des Moines is above the national average, providing residents with a comfortable standard of living. Additionally, the city has seen a steady decline in its unemployment rate in recent years.
With its growing job opportunities and overall economic stability, Des Moines offers a promising environment for individuals seeking professional growth and financial security.
State taxes and local taxes
Des Moines, the capital city of Iowa, offers a favorable tax environment for its residents. Iowa has a progressive income tax system with nine different tax brackets ranging from 0.33% to 8.53%. The state also has a sales tax rate of 6%, which is slightly higher than the national average.
Property taxes in Des Moines can vary depending on the neighborhood and assessed value of the property. However, overall property tax rates in Iowa tend to be lower than the national average.
Education system
Des Moines takes pride in its robust education system, providing ample opportunities for students of all ages.
Local Colleges and Universities:
- Iowa State University
- Drake University
- Simpson College
- Grand View University
- Mercy College of Health Sciences
Nearby Colleges and Universities:
- University of Iowa (located in Iowa City)
- University of Northern Iowa (located in Cedar Falls)
- Iowa Western Community College (located in Council Bluffs)
City’s public transportation and traffic, including local airports
Des Moines offers various transportation options for its residents to navigate through the city efficiently.
The Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART) operates an extensive bus network that covers most areas within the city. DART also offers paratransit services for individuals with disabilities.
In terms of air travel, Des Moines International Airport serves as a major hub for both domestic and international flights. The airport offers a wide range of airlines and destinations, making it convenient for residents to travel.
Neighborhoods in Des Moines
Des Moines is known for its diverse neighborhoods, each offering its unique charm and character. Here are some of the notable neighborhoods:
Downtown:
The heart of the city, Downtown Des Moines, is a vibrant area with a mix of residential, commercial, and entertainment options. It boasts attractions such as the Iowa State Capitol, East Village shopping district, and the Civic Center.
Beaverdale:
Located in northwest Des Moines, Beaverdale is a charming neighborhood known for its tree-lined streets and post-war houses. It offers a close-knit community feel with local events like parades and festivals.
South of Grand:
This upscale neighborhood is situated just south of downtown and is known for its beautiful historic homes and picturesque streets. South of Grand provides residents with easy access to parks, museums, and restaurants.
Chesterfield:
Chesterfield is a family-oriented neighborhood that offers affordable housing options. It features several parks and recreational facilities, making it an ideal place for outdoor activities.
Drake Neighborhood:
Home to Drake University, this neighborhood has a lively atmosphere with a mix of students, faculty members, and families. It offers diverse dining options and easy access to local amenities.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere in Des Moines
Des Moines is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, making it a great place to live for families of all sizes. The city offers a range of activities and amenities that cater to the needs and interests of children and adults alike.
One of the highlights for families in Des Moines is the Blank Park Zoo, where kids can get up close and personal with various animals. The Science Center of Iowa is another popular destination, offering interactive exhibits and educational programs for all ages.
The city also has numerous parks and outdoor spaces, such as Gray’s Lake Park and Water Works Park, which provide ample opportunities for family picnics, hiking, biking, and other recreational activities. In addition, Des Moines boasts excellent schools and a strong sense of community, creating an ideal environment for raising children.
Tourism in Des Moines: Exploring the City’s Attractions
Des Moines may not be the most famous tourist destination in the United States, but it certainly has a lot to offer to visitors. Whether you are interested in cultural experiences or outdoor adventures, this city provides plenty of options.
A must-visit attraction in Des Moines is the Iowa State Capitol building. This magnificent structure showcases stunning architecture and offers guided tours to visitors interested in learning about Iowa’s political history.
The Pappajohn Sculpture Park is another gem that showcases an impressive collection of contemporary sculptures within a beautifully landscaped setting. For art enthusiasts, the Des Moines Art Center features renowned works from both national and international artists.
In addition to these cultural attractions, Des Moines hosts various annual events that attract visitors from far and wide. The Iowa State Fair is one such event, offering entertainment options like live music performances, food stalls with local delicacies, thrilling rides, and much more.
Moving to Des Moines: What You Need to Know
If you are considering moving to Des Moines, there are several factors that make it an attractive option. The city has a relatively low cost of living compared to other major metropolitan areas, making it affordable for families and individuals alike.
Des Moines also boasts a strong job market with opportunities in various industries, including finance, insurance, manufacturing, and healthcare. The city’s economy has been steadily growing over the years, creating a stable and diverse employment landscape.
When it comes to housing options, Des Moines offers a mix of historic homes in charming neighborhoods and modern apartments in bustling downtown areas. The city’s transportation infrastructure is well-developed, making it easy to commute within Des Moines and its surrounding suburbs.
Furthermore, Des Moines is known for its friendly and welcoming community. Residents often emphasize the sense of belonging and connectedness that they experience while living in this vibrant city.
Retiring in Des Moines
Des Moines is a fantastic city for retirees looking for a peaceful and vibrant place to spend their golden years. With its affordable cost of living, excellent healthcare facilities, and rich cultural scene, Des Moines offers a high quality of life for retirees.
The city boasts beautiful parks and recreational areas, perfect for leisurely walks or picnics. The renowned Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is a haven for nature lovers, filled with stunning plant collections. Additionally, the city has numerous golf courses and recreational centers that cater to seniors.
Des Moines also features a thriving arts and cultural scene, with several museums, theaters, and music venues. Retirees can enjoy art galleries, catch Broadway shows at the Des Moines Civic Center, or attend concerts at the Wells Fargo Arena.
The city’s affordable housing options make it an attractive destination for retirees. There are various retirement communities and assisted living facilities that offer comfortable accommodations and amenities tailored to the needs of older adults.
Pros and Cons of Living in Des Moines
Pros:
- Affordable cost of living compared to national average
- Strong job market with diverse industries
- Low commute times
- Friendly and welcoming community
- Rich cultural scene with museums, theaters, and art galleries
- Well-maintained parks and recreational areas
Cons:
- Cold winters with snowfall
- Limited public transportation system
- Somewhat limited dining options compared to larger cities
- Traffic congestion during peak hours
- Occasional severe weather events
Frequently Asked Questions about Des Moines
1. What is the cost of living like in Des Moines?
The cost of living in Des Moines is lower than the national average, making it an affordable place to live. Housing, healthcare, and groceries are particularly reasonably priced in comparison to other major cities.
2. Is Des Moines a safe city?
Des Moines has a relatively low crime rate compared to cities of similar size. However, like any urban area, it is always advisable to take necessary precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
3. What are the primary industries that drive the economy in Des Moines?
The economy in Des Moines is diverse, with notable industries including insurance (Des Moines being known as the “Insurance Capital of the World”), financial services, manufacturing, healthcare, and technology.
4. Are there good educational institutions in Des Moines?
Des Moines offers excellent educational opportunities at all levels. The city has reputable public and private schools, along with several colleges and universities providing higher education options.
5. What outdoor activities can I enjoy in Des Moines?
Des Moines offers a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, boating, fishing, and golfing. The city’s parks and recreational areas provide ample opportunities for nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers.
