Des Moines City Property Records in Iowa
Des Moines property records document ownership, parcel boundaries, assessed values, taxes, transfers, mortgages, liens, and other recorded interests for real estate in the city. Because Des Moines lies primarily in Polk County, users usually begin with Polk County Assessor for parcel data, ownership, assessed values, and property characteristics; Polk County Recorder for deeds, mortgages, plats, and other recorded instruments; and Polk County Treasurer for property tax bills and payment history. For properties in the Warren County portion of Des Moines, consult Warren County Assessor, Warren County Recorder, and Warren County Treasurer. Statewide recorded land documents may also be searched through Iowa Land Records, Iowa’s official electronic land records portal. For court-related property matters such as foreclosures, judgments, or liens, users can access case information through Iowa Judicial Branch resources. The City of Des Moines may also provide zoning, permits, and neighborhood or parcel-related information that supplements county property records.
Des Moines Property and Community Statistics
What Are the Crime Rates
This section shows reported crime in Des Moines, covering violent crimes such as murder, robbery, and assault, along with property crimes such as total property crimes, burglary, and motor vehicle theft. The data records 9 murders, 157 robberies, and 1,198 assaults in the violent crime categories.
Property crimes total 6,542 reported incidents, including 968 burglaries and 1,092 motor vehicle thefts. Comparing these counts shows how often each type of crime appears in the city's reported figures, which helps readers see where the largest volumes fall.
The figures describe reported incidents, so they offer a starting point for understanding crime in Des Moines rather than a complete picture of local safety.
What Is the Population Profile of Des Moines
Des Moines's population is mostly White, at 62% (131,082 people). Hispanic residents make up 16% (33,996 people), and Black residents account for 12% (25,043 people). The three largest groups are White, Hispanic, and Black, while Asian residents make up 6% (13,069 people) and residents of two or more races make up 4% (8,554 people).
Des Moines, Ratings Compared Across Iowa 
Des Moines's ratings cover several aspects of life in the city. The highest-rated categories are Nightlife (A), Access to Bars (A), and Access to Parks (A). Other notable ratings include Diversity (A), Good for Young Professionals (A), and Commute (A-), while Housing (B-) and Public Schools (C) are rated lower. Together, these ratings provide an overview of key quality-of-life categories.
How Educated Is Des Moines
Des Moines's Education data shows residents' educational attainment, including High School (29%), Bachelor Degree (20%), and Below High School (13%). The data also includes other available education levels.
When Were Homes Built
Des Moines's Home Age data shows when homes were built across different construction periods. Most homes were built during Before 1939 (28%), followed by 1960 - 1979 (22%) and 1940 - 1959 (22%). The data also includes other available construction periods.
How Many Bedrooms Do Homes Have?
Des Moines's Home Size data shows the distribution of homes by number of bedrooms. Most homes have 3 Bedrooms (35%), followed by 2 Bedrooms (34%) and 1 Bedroom (14%). The data also includes other available bedroom categories.
What Is the Average Age
Des Moines's Population data shows the distribution of residents by age group. The largest groups are 25 - 34 (17%), Under 10 (13%), and 35 - 44 (13%). The data also includes other available age groups.
Property Market Trends at Des Moines
Des Moines's property market remains strong, with the median home price reaching approximately $183,700. Suburban areas, however, offer more affordable housing options. The rental market is also competitive, with the median rent around $1,054 per month. Despite high demand and limited inventory, the market remains resilient, attracting both buyers and investors seeking long-term value in Des Moines's dynamic real estate landscape.