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Regional demographics

In Greater Des Moines, regional demographics show a population of 885,796 for the Greater Des Moines Partnership’s 12 service area counties of Adair, Clarke, Dallas, Guthrie, Jasper, Madison, Mahaska, Marion, Marshall, Polk, Poweshiek and Warren. The potential for growth continues, with Greater Des Moines' status as the Midwest’s fastest-growing major metro secure after the most recent Census estimates. The momentum in Greater Des Moines is not slowing down, and with its focus on attracting top talent, including young professionals and Gen Z homebuyers, the region continues to be a popular choice for many.

Population Growth

When it comes to population growth, a strong workforce with high earnings and potential for career growth is essential. The region’s employed workforce is 97%, with employment highest in the health care / social assistance, finance / insurance and manufacturing industries. Top employers dedicated to employee development and performance go a long way, too. Companies like Pella Corporation, EMC Insurance and UnityPoint Health, and many others, are all making notable contributions to attracting and retaining talent in the region through internship programs, flexible work policies and professional development opportunities.

With a median household income of $83,374, Greater Des Moines boasts a higher median household income than the national median, and that means increased spending in the region, both through purchasing from local businesses and taking the leap into small business ownership.

While the population is dominantly White (79%), there is a growing Hispanic and Latino community within the region (9%). According to the Latino Center of Iowa, the number of Latino residents is expected to double by 2050, contributing to the overall population growth in Greater Des Moines.

Demographics at a Glance

Who is living, working and building their life in Greater Des Moines? People ages 19 and under (27%) and ages 20-34 (20%) comprise nearly half the population. Benefits like an average daily commute of 21 minutes and evolving interstate projects designed to improve travel in the region are just what this demographic is looking for when deciding on a place to live. Each of the communities in Greater Des Moines offers something unique, too, whether you like easy small-town living or lively cities close to the action.

The ages 45-64 demographic (23%) shows that the region is not only enticing young adults, but mid and late career professionals as well.

Thanks to high scores for housing, transportation, neighborhood, environment, health, engagement and opportunity, Downtown Des Moines is distinctly livable for the older age group, too.

Immigration is another key factor driving growth in the region, according to the Data Hub. The Partnership highlights foreign-born talent as a means for Greater Des Moines to stay competitive and mitigate possible labor shortages in various industries. By showcasing the immigrant experience and celebrating those journeys, their stories can help diversify the Greater Des Moines community and grow opportunities across the region.

The Greater Des Moines Partnership's talent attraction campaign, Do Something Greater, captures the stories of people making the move to Greater Des Moines to build their lives and careers here — and what makes it possible for people to thrive in the place they call home.

Contact The Partnership

If you’re looking for demographics and insights on Greater Des Moines, the Economic Development team members at the Greater Des Moines Partnership can assist you. Reach out to Brett Lucas, Director of Research, for inquiries related to data, demographics and analysis for the Greater Des Moines region.

blucas@DSMpartnership.com | (515) 286-4953