West Des Moines

Tucked along the western edge of the Des Moines metro, West Des Moines has quietly built a reputation as one of Iowa’s most livable cities. It’s not trying to be flashy, but spend a weekend exploring its trails, neighborhoods, and restaurant scene, and you’ll understand why people keep choosing to put down roots here. Whether you’re relocating for a job, a lower cost of living, or simply a better quality of life, West Des Moines deserves a serious look.

A City That Fits Multiple Lifestyles

With a population of just under 70,000 people and a median age of 36.5, West Des Moines strikes an interesting balance — it’s young and growing, but it doesn’t feel chaotic or overcrowded. Young professionals and families tend to cluster in newer developments near Jordan Creek Town Center, while the historic Valley Junction neighborhood attracts people who want walkable streets, independent shops, and a genuine sense of community character. That roughly six-block stretch of Fifth Street is one of the city’s best-kept secrets, lined with antique stores, local restaurants, and a farmers’ market that runs through the warmer months. The city also borders Waukee and Clive, so you get easy access to neighboring amenities without giving up that distinct West Des Moines identity.

Cost of Living and Housing

Housing in West Des Moines is competitive but still reasonable compared to coastal metro areas. The median home price sits around $286,300, which buys you considerably more square footage than you’d find in comparable cities on either coast. You’ll find a wide range of options — from established ranch-style homes in the older neighborhoods west of Interstate 35 to newer townhomes and larger single-family builds near the Mills Civic Parkway corridor. The rental market is active as well, with apartments concentrated around the Jordan Creek area and along EP True Parkway. Property taxes in Iowa are something to factor in, as they run slightly higher than the national average, but overall the cost of living remains one of West Des Moines’s genuine selling points.

Employment and Economy

The local economy is one of the strongest reasons people end up here. West Des Moines is home to major employers including Wells Fargo’s regional campus, Nationwide Insurance, EMC Insurance, and a growing cluster of technology and financial services firms. The broader Des Moines metro has become a genuine hub for insurance and financial services, and West Des Moines sits right at the center of that activity. The median household income of $84,925 reflects the concentration of professional-sector jobs, and unemployment has historically tracked below national averages. If you’re in finance, tech, healthcare, or insurance, your job search here will feel noticeably different than in many other mid-sized cities.

Lifestyle and Recreation

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to keep them busy. The Raccoon River Valley Trail connects West Des Moines to a regional network stretching over 100 miles, making it a dream for cyclists and runners. Raccoon River Park offers a beach, fishing, and open green space right inside city limits. For families, the West Des Moines Community Schools district has a strong reputation, which consistently shows up as a top reason families choose the area over neighboring suburbs. Dining has expanded significantly over the past decade, with options ranging from local favorites like Eatery A to national chains clustered around the Jordan Creek mall area.

The Bottom Line

West Des Moines won’t dazzle you with skyline drama or coastal glamour, but it delivers on the things that actually shape daily life — good jobs, affordable homes, safe neighborhoods, and genuine community. If you’re relocating from a high-cost city, the adjustment will feel immediately positive. If you’re moving from within the Midwest, you’ll find a city that’s growing thoughtfully without losing its approachable character. It’s a place worth moving to with confidence.