What are the hidden costs of living in West Des Moines?

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

What is the median home price in West Des Moines?

The median home price in West Des Moines is approximately $281,800.

Is West Des Moines walkable?

West Des Moines has a Walk Score of 58 out of 100. Some errands can be done on foot.

What are the downsides of living in West Des Moines?

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

How are the schools in West Des Moines?

West Des Moines has a school rating of 6.4/10. Schools are above average.

What is the commute like from West Des Moines?

The average commute from West Des Moines to Des Moines Downtown is approximately 35 minutes.

West Des Moines, IA

West Des Moines · Polk County · IA 50265

Updated October 30, 2026 · Would You Live There?

Good for now

Verdict

$282K

Median Price

58/100

Walk Score

6.4/10

Schools

35 min

to Des Moines Downtown

Score Breakdown

BAffordability

78/100

D+Safety

55/100

CSchools

64/100

D+Quietness

50/100

B-Commute

70/100

C-Walkability

58/100

WYLT Score63/100

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