Cost of Living in West Des Moines, IA
Population: 69,893 • 2026 Data
$84,925
Median Household Income
+10% vs national
$1,194
Median Monthly Rent
-11% vs national
$286,300
Median Home Value
-16% vs national
2.5%
Unemployment Rate
Housing in West Des Moines
The median home value in West Des Moines, IA is $286,300. Monthly rent for a typical unit averages $1,194, while total monthly housing costs (including utilities and insurance) average $1,288.
Rent-to-income ratio: 16.9%. This is within the recommended 30% threshold, suggesting housing is relatively affordable for median-income earners.
Income and Employment
The median household income in West Des Moines, IA is $84,925. The unemployment rate stands at 2.5%, with a labor force of 41,809 people.
Data Sources
All data from the US Census Bureau American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates. National median figures used for comparison context.