Greater Des Moines Area
Did you know that the Des Moines metro area (which includes Urbandale, Ankeny, West Des Moines and Grimes) is the fastest growing metro area in the Midwest? With an energetic culture and abundant career growth opportunities, the Des Moines metro offers one of the most attractive destinations in the Midwest.
In fact, Des Moines was named among Forbes’ Top 10 Best Places for Business and Careers (2019) and ranked in the Top 5 of U.S. News & World Report’s Best Places to Live in the U.S. (2019). With affordable living, a vibrant downtown, welcoming suburbs and world-class education system, Des Moines is an amazing place to call home.
Fast Facts
- Population: 809,143
- #2 Safest Place to Live (U.S. News, 2021)
- Most Sustainable Cities (Site Selection, 2021)
- #8 Best City to Live in After the Pandemic (Business Insider, 2020)
- #13 Best Places to Live (U.S. News, 2021)
Big city life, small town budget
“I can enjoy all the benefits of urban life – dining, culture, entertainment and the convenience of living just blocks from where I work, said Antoinette Stevens. “And, you want to know the best part? I still have money in my bank account to live a fun-filled life.”
Six Hidden Gems in Des Moines
Experience the hidden gems of Des Moines and all the great things it has to offer, from hidden outdoor recreation opportunities to farms and restaurants.
A Capital for Capital
“We have a strong pool of diverse, talented and smart [insurance and finance] professionals here in Iowa,” said Rona Berinobis, Wellmark. “When we need to recruit people to move here, they take one look at Des Moines and they’re sold. It’s cosmopolitan, yet beautiful.”
