Questions About Greater Des Moines

Considering moving to Greater Des Moines, but not familiar with this region in the heart of the Midwest? No worries! We’re answering eight commonly asked questions about Greater Des Moines communities, covering topics like employment, recreation, transportation, weather and more.  

Maybe you’re wondering what Des Moines is known for or what makes it a great place to live. Are the Midwest winters really that cold, and what challenges does the weather bring? What major employers have headquarters here? Maybe you’re even wondering: is Des Moines cool? (We sure think so!)No matter how much you know about The Hawkeye State, you’re sure to find some new information below to help you get to know DSM better — so you’re more than prepared to relocate, and even better, you’re excited to get here. 

Is Greater Des Moines a good place to live? Don’t just take our word for it – ask a DSM MVP. These community champions can answer even more questions about living here. Connect with an MVP. 

Several tables on an outdoor patio. The tables are full of people talking, eating and drinking. The view from the patio is grassy rolling hills.

What is Des Moines Known For? 

While most people might say DSM is known for its 11-day state fair and its gold-domed Capitol building, we like to think DSM s is just as known for its major employers, robust restaurant scene, outdoor recreation and arts and culture. 

Attractions like Adventureland in Altoona, the Pappajohn Sculpture Park in Downtown Des Moines (DSM), Living History Farms in Urbandale and Jordan Creek Town Center in West Des Moines are well-known throughout the region and beyond. The ever-growing bike trail system is a draw for visitors and locals alike, with the popular High Trestle Trail drawing more than 250,000 visitors per year, 45,000 of which are from out of state. If you love biking to miss this guide on Ways to Bike Greater Des Moines.  

But there are a lot of cool things about Des Moines that you might not know, and this list of 20+ Cool Things You Didn’t Know About DSM might surprise you!  

Des Moines is a family-friendly place, and we’ve got more than enough reasons why your family will love it here (and your fur family members, too!). 

What are the Highest Paying Jobs in Iowa? 

What are the highest paying jobs in Iowa? 

In Iowa, healthcare-related occupations are among the highest paying in the state, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Healthcare occupations with the highest annual mean wages include ophthalmologists, surgeons, dermatologists, physicians, neurologists and more.  

Other occupations like airline pilots, chief executives, post-secondary law teachers, sales managers, information security analysts and computer and information systems managers are also high on the list. 

Flower planters in the Grinnell town square with a view of some of the buildings.

What is the Weather Like in Des Moines?

According to the National Weather Service, Des Moines’ annual temperature averages for Iowa’s four seasons are: 

  • Winter Average: 25.6 degrees
  • Spring Average: 51 degrees
  • Summer Average: 74 degrees
  • Autumn Average: 52.9 degrees

Experiencing all four seasons is a perk of living in DSM. Think beautiful winter snows, verdant springs, sunny summers and cool, colorful falls. And each turn of the weather brings new ways to enjoy the region like seasonal sports and outdoor activities, new sights and special annual events tailored to the season. 

How is Transportation in Greater Des Moines? 

It’s easy to get around DSM and its surrounding communities thanks to the region’s size. Commuting from work to home or vice versa is quick, even during rush hour, and that’s a big draw to those looking for lower stress and to save money. The average commute time for a DSM-er is 21 minutes. Des Moines Area Regional Transit (DART) runs bus routes throughout the region and offers services like rideshares and paratransit.  

A family of four walking on a path at a park surrounded by plants in the fall.

What Type of Recreational Opportunities are There in Greater Des Moines? 

Parks, outdoor recreation and sports are easy to come by in Des Moines. Walking, running and biking trails cover the region, while aquatic centers, state parks and golf courses offer ways to get outside. Explore parks in every community, including city parks, nature parks and dog parks. Check out this roundup of outdoor recreation you might be surprised to find in DSM.  

As for sports, not only are there plenty of local teams to cheer on, but Iowa’s first professional soccer team to the new Pro Iowa Stadium and Global Plaza in the future. The region is also home to more than a few outdoor pickleball locations, which means you can take advantage of the fastest-growing sport in the country. 

What is the Cost of Living in Des Moines? 

Housing costs, job compensation and taxes play into the cost of living in the region. Use the Greater Des Moines Partnership’s cost of living calculator to see how your current location compare. While the cost of living is 13-15% lower than the national average (The Council for Community and Economic Research), our quality of living is head and shoulders above the rest. (See: All the reasons to live in DSM and the rankings: Visual Capitalist puts DSM as the #3 Most Livable City in the U.S. and Neighbor.com hails DSM as the #4 most neighborly city in America.  

A group of professionals sitting around a table during a meeting.

How Can You Grow Your Career in Des Moines?

Know the top employers in the region, learn about internship opportunities or search current job openings. Networking is a big part of the professional landscape. (Tip: Chambers of Commerce offer great events for networking.)  DSM MVPs offer insights into working in DSM. Connect with one who works in your industry or field and get direct insights from those who know the local landscape!  

Is Greater Des Moines a Nice Place to Live? 

Come see for yourself! Get a free relocation guide sent to you and see what you’re missing in DSM!