Known for its friendly Midwestern charm and bustling downtown area, Des Moines, IA, draws residents with its diverse neighborhoods and a strong sense of community. Whether you’re looking for a historic home in the charming Beaverdale neighborhood or a trendy apartment in the bustling Downtown Des Moines area, a neighborhood in Des Moines suits every lifestyle.
With a range of housing options and plenty of attractions and activities to enjoy, Des Moines is a city that truly has it all. But if you don’t know what neighborhood to buy a home or rent an apartment in Des Moines, Redfin has got you covered. Here are 12 popular Des Moines neighborhoods to explore this year.
1. Beaverdale
Beaverdale is northwest of downtown Des Moines and is known for its charming suburban feel. The neighborhood has several parks, including Witmer Park and Beaverdale Park, where residents can enjoy outdoor activities. Beaverdale also has a rich history, with many historic homes and buildings that add to its character. This history is also reflected in the single-family homes and townhouses available in the neighborhood.
Median Sale Price: $255,250
Average Rent for 1-Bedroom Apartment: $780 | Average Rent for 2-Bedroom Apartment: $805
Homes for Sale in Beaverdale | Apartments for Rent in Beaverdale
2. Capitol East
Capitol East is a great neighborhood just outside of downtown, known for its proximity to the Iowa State Capitol building. The neighborhood offers easy access to major attractions such as the Iowa State Capitol and the State Historical Museum. Capitol East is also home to several parks, including Stewart Square Park and Ashfield Park, where residents can enjoy outdoor activities. The neighborhood features a mix of housing types, including single-family homes and apartments, ranging from historic to contemporary.
Median Sale Price: $159,000
Homes for Sale in Capitol East | Apartments for Rent in Capitol East
3. Downtown Des Moines
Downtown Des Moines is the heart of the city, offering a vibrant urban lifestyle in a charming midwestern city. The neighborhood is home to major attractions such as the Des Moines Civic Center, the Science Center of Iowa, and the Pappajohn Sculpture Park. Residents can also enjoy the beautiful views of the Des Moines River and the skyline from the Rotary Riverwalk Park. There is plenty to do living in Downtown, from the countless museums and venues to the local shops, restaurants, and historic places. Downtown Des Moines offers a mix of housing options, including high-rise apartments and condos.
Median Sale Price: $350,500
Average Rent for 1-Bedroom Apartment: $1,347 | Average Rent for 2-Bedroom Apartment: $1,775
Homes for Sale in Downtown Des Moines | Apartments for Rent in Downtown Des Moines
4. Drake
The Drake neighborhood is home to Drake University and has a mix of residential and commercial areas. Drake is also home to several parks, including Drake Park and Witmer Park, where residents can enjoy outdoor activities. If you’re looking to live in Drake, you can find lots of single-family homes and apartments for rent.
Median Sale Price: $200,000
Average Rent for 1-Bedroom Apartment: $775 | Average Rent for 2-Bedroom Apartment: $1,662
Homes for Sale in Drake | Apartments for Rent in Drake
5. Highland Park
Highland Park is primarily a residential neighborhood located north of downtown. The area is home to several parks, including Highland Park and Union Park, where residents can enjoy outdoor activities. Highland Park also has a number of historic homes and buildings that add to its charm, along with single-family homes and apartments.
Median Sale Price: $165,000
Average Rent for 2-Bedroom Apartment: $1,035
Homes for Sale in Highland Park | Apartments for Rent in Highland Park
6. Historic East Village
East Village is located across the Des Moines River and is known for its historic charm and vibrant atmosphere. The neighborhood is home to several historic buildings, including the State Capitol Building and the Iowa State Historical Building. Historic East Village also offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and art galleries, like Wooly’s, a concert venue, Des Moines Heritage Center, and Simon Estes Amphitheater.
Historic East Village features a mix of housing options, including historic homes and modern apartments, ranging from Victorian to contemporary, reflecting its rich history and evolving urban landscape.
Median Sale Price: $215,000
Average Rent for 1-Bedroom Apartment: $1,095 | Average Rent for 2-Bedroom Apartment: $1,425
Homes for Sale in Historic East Village | Apartments for Rent in Historic East Village
7. North of Grand
North of Grand has beautiful tree-lined streets and historic homes, creating a charming neighborhood that’s located west of downtown. The neighborhood offers easy access to major attractions such as the Des Moines Art Center, Salisbury House & Gardens, and Greenwood Park. North of Grand features a mix of housing options, including historic homes and apartments. The architectural styles in the neighborhood range from Tudor Revival to Colonial Revival.
Median Sale Price: $193,000
Average Rent for 2-Bedroom Apartment: $958
Homes for Sale in North of Grand | Apartments for Rent in North of Grand
8. River Bend
River Bend is a quaint residential neighborhood located along the Des Moines River. It’s conveniently located near Crocker Woods Park and Birdland Park, meaning there are plenty of options for spending the day outside. The neighborhood offers a mix of single-family homes and apartments, providing options for different budgets and lifestyles. River Bend features a variety of architectural styles, ranging from traditional to contemporary.
Median Sale Price: $79,000
Homes for Sale in River Bend | Apartments for Rent in River Bend
9. Sherman Hill
Sherman Hill is a historic district just outside of downtown. Known for its historic charm and community, you can find several historic homes and buildings in the area. For example, you can visit Hoyt Sherman Place, a performing arts center housed in a 19th-century manor. Sherman Hill also offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and art galleries. If you’re looking to live in Sherman Hill, there are plenty of historic homes and modern apartments in styles like Victorian to contemporary.
Median Sale Price: $400,000
Average Rent for 1-Bedroom Apartment: $975 | Average Rent for 2-Bedroom Apartment: $1,250
Homes for Sale in Sherman Hill | Apartments for Rent in Sherman Hill
10. South Park
South Park is known for its community parks and residential feeling. The neighborhood is near several parks, including Ewing Park and MacRae Park, where residents can enjoy outdoor activities. South Park also offers easy access to major attractions such as the Blank Park Zoo and Easter Lake Park. In South Park, you’ll find a mix of housing options, including single-family homes and apartments.
Median Sale Price: $210,000
Average Rent for 1-Bedroom Apartment: $695 | Average Rent for 2-Bedroom Apartment: $850
Homes for Sale in South Park | Apartments for Rent in South Park
11. Waveland Park
Waveland Park has a peaceful and residential atmosphere. The neighborhood has several parks, including Waveland Golf Course Park, where you can find the Drake Municipal Observatory. Waveland Park features a mix of housing options, including single-family homes and apartments.
Median Sale Price: $254,500
Homes for Sale in Waveland Park | Apartments for Rent in Waveland Park
12. Woodland Heights
Known for its tree-lined streets and historic homes, Woodland Heights is just west of Sherman Hill. The neighborhood offers a peaceful residential atmosphere, with easy access to major attractions such as the Terrace Hill Historic Site and the Mahnke House. Woodland Heights features a mix of housing options, including apartments and historic homes in styles like Tudor Revival to Colonial Revival.
Median Sale Price: $215,000
Average Rent for 1-Bedroom Apartment: $675 | Average Rent for 2-Bedroom Apartment: $860
Homes for Sale in Woodland Heights | Apartments for Rent in Woodland Heights
Methodology: All neighborhoods must be listed as a “neighborhood” on Redfin.com. Median home sale price data from the Redfin Data Center during October 2023. Average rental data from Rent.com during October 2023.
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