Des Moines, IA, known as 'The Hartford of the West,' offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern urban amenities. Located in the heart of Iowa, Des Moines is a large city that serves as the state capital and a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Ames and West Des Moines enhance its status as a central point in the region. Des Moines's blend of historic landmarks, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.
Des Moines is home to several iconic landmarks, including the Iowa State Capitol, the historic Salisbury House, and the scenic Pappajohn Sculpture Park. The city offers a variety of attractions, from the beautiful Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden to the bustling Jordan Creek Town Center, known for its shopping and dining. Des Moines's dining scene is diverse, offering everything from farm-to-table cuisine to international dishes.
Annual events such as the Iowa State Fair and the Des Moines Arts Festival highlight the city's vibrant cultural scene and provide unique entertainment opportunities for residents and visitors. These events celebrate Des Moines's rich cultural heritage and community spirit. Prestigious institutions like Drake University contribute to the city's academic and cultural vibrancy, fostering a thriving intellectual community.
The arts and culture scene in Des Moines is dynamic and diverse, with numerous theaters, music venues, and art galleries. The Des Moines Civic Center and the Des Moines Art Center are just a few of the cultural landmarks that showcase the city's commitment to the arts. Living in Des Moines provides ample opportunities to engage with art, music, and history, making it an exciting place to call home.
Des Moines’s community is welcoming and diverse, creating a friendly environment for newcomers. The city is home to professional sports teams like the Iowa Cubs (MiLB) and the Iowa Wild (AHL), providing plenty of excitement for sports fans. Major industries in Des Moines include finance, insurance, and healthcare, with significant employers such as Principal Financial Group and UnityPoint Health driving economic growth. The city has extensive public transit options, including buses and bike-sharing programs, making commuting convenient and sustainable.
| Statistic | North Of Grand | Des Moines | Iowa |
| Average one way commute | n/a | 19min | 19min |
| Workers who drive to work | 86.4% | 78.6% | 80.7% |
| Workers who carpool | 3.1% | 9.7% | 8.6% |
| Workers who take public transit | 1.3% | 2.0% | 1.1% |
| Workers who bicycle | 0.8% | 0.3% | 0.5% |
| Workers who walk | 2.3% | 2.7% | 3.5% |
| Working from home | 4.5% | 5.5% | 4.5% |
Here are the best places to live in Iowa
Check out the 10 safest cities in Iowa
Safest States In The US
Most Dangerous Cities In The US