Des Moines, the capital of Iowa, is a charming and lively city that offers a unique blend of urban and rural lifestyles. Immerse yourself in Des Moines' remarkable heritage with various cultural and historical landmarks, including the State Capitol, the Des Moines Art Center, the Des Moines Performing Arts Center, and the Salisbury House and Gardens. Des Moines is also home to several top-ranked educational institutions, including Drake University and Grand View University, which offer excellent educational opportunities.
Explore the city's natural wonders by visiting its numerous parks and trails, such as Gray's Lake Park, the Des Moines Riverwalk, and the Pappajohn Sculpture Park. Des Moines is also known for its delicious food and diverse culinary experiences, from farm-to-table dining to classic Midwestern fare. Des Moines is home to various remarkable events throughout the year, including the Iowa State Fair, one of the largest state fairs in the country, the Downtown Farmers' Market, the World Food and Music Festival, and the Des Moines Arts Festival, highlighting the city's lively community and cultural richness.
With its friendly community, affordable living, and excellent quality of life, Des Moines is an ideal place to call home.
As of October 2026, Des Moines's rental market is balanced, with rentals spending about 36 days on the market, slower than in Iowa (32), and rents down 1.6% over the past year. Des Moines's average rent is 4.0% ($49) lower than the Iowa average of $1,218 and 43.9% ($913) lower than the U.S. average of $2,082.
| Unit Type | Average Rent | Monthly ChangeMonth Over Month Change | Yearly ChangeYear Over Year Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Bed | $998 | 0.02% | 1.9% ($19) |
| 2 Beds | $1,206 | 0.17% ($2) | 1.3% ($16) |
| 3 Beds | $1,645 | 0.52% ($9) | 0.1% ($2) |
| Nearby Cities | Average Rent | Avg. Rent vs. Des MoinesAverage Rent vs. Des Moines | Days on Market |
|---|---|---|---|
| Windsor Heights | $1,350 | 15.5% ($181) | 38 days |
| Pleasant Hill | $1,540 | 31.7% ($371) | 38 days |
| Urbandale | $1,289 | 10.3% ($120) | 46 days |
| West Des Moines | $1,424 | 21.8% ($255) | 37 days |
| Altoona | $1,501 | 28.4% ($332) | 37 days |
Explore rental prices, market conditions, and affordability in Des Moines, IA.
Explore recent posts on our blog, curated for renters, landlords, and industry pros.
