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West Des Moines, IA
West Des Moines · Polk County · IA 50265
Updated June 19, 2026 · Would You Live There?
Good for now
Verdict
$285K
Median Price
…
Walk Score
6.1/10
Schools
35 min
to Des Moines Downtown
Score Breakdown
BAffordability
78/100
D+Safety
55/100
CSchools
61/100
D+Quietness
50/100
B-Commute
70/100
FWalkability
0/100
WYLT Score52/100
Our Take
West Des Moines offers solid family schools and affordable homes, but it’s very car‑dependent with little walkability or nightlife. It’s a decent place if you’re okay with a commute and a quiet, suburban feel.
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The Good
- ✓Good public school options including a top‑rated high school
- ✓Affordable median home price relative to nearby cities
- ✓Low flood risk
- ✓Reasonable property tax rates for Iowa
Real Talk
- !Walk score of 0 means almost no errands can be done on foot
- !Limited public transit options; most people need a car
- !Dining and nightlife options are sparse compared to the city core
- !Commute to downtown Des Moines can take 30–45 minutes, depending on traffic
- $Higher property taxes for larger homes
- $Car insurance and fuel costs due to car dependency
- $Maintenance of yard and home upkeep in a suburban setting
Best For
Families looking for good schoolsYoung professionals who driveRetirees wanting a quiet suburbFirst‑time home buyersCommuters to Des Moines downtown
Risk Snapshot
Flood riskLow
Violent crimeModerate
Property crimeModerate
Air qualityGood
Price volatilityLow
Crime & Safety
West Des Moines, IA
D+
Safety grade
Safety score55 / 100
High riskVery safe
⚠️Violent Crime
Moderate3.9incidents / 1,000 residents / yr
0Natl avg (3.7)11+
5% higher than the national average
🔒Property Crime
Moderate19.8incidents / 1,000 residents / yr
0Natl avg (19.5)59+
2% higher than the national average
Verify with real-time data
City-Data stats →From Residents
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