DSM Population Growth Outpaces Other Midwest Metros

GREATER DES MOINES, IA (April 7, 2022) – Greater Des Moines (DSM) is again the fastest-growing major Midwest metro in percentage of population growth, according to the 2021 estimates released by the U.S. Census Bureau. The Des Moines – West Des Moines Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) grew from 606,475 residents in 2010 to 719,146 residents as of July 1, 2021, an increase of 18.6%. From 2020 to 2021, DSM grew by 1.4%. Growth was measured from April 1, 2010 – July 1, 2021 and April 1, 2020 – July 1, 2021.

By percentage, DSM grew faster than Midwest peers including Chicago, Omaha, Kansas City, Milwaukee, Minneapolis and St. Louis, both year-over-year and in the period since 2010. This growth is the continuation of a long-term trend for the region’s MSA. Projections have shown DSM’s population nearing 1 million people in coming years.

“DSM has been nationally recognized as a place that is poised for a strong post-pandemic future, and the region’s strength is largely the result of the community’s collective commitment to work as one region and invest in major projects and initiatives to attract and retain talent,” said Jay Byers, President and CEO of the Greater Des Moines Partnership. “In addition to overall population growth, DSM has outpaced its Midwest peers in foreign-born population growth, and we will continue to push forward on making DSM a welcoming place where people from all over the country and world want to live and grow their careers.”

About the Greater Des Moines Partnership

The Greater Des Moines Partnership is the economic and community development organization that serves Greater Des Moines (DSM), Iowa. Together with 24 Affiliate Chambers of Commerce, more than 6,500 Regional Business Members and more than 365 Investors, The Partnership drives economic growth with one voice, one mission and as one region. Through innovation, strategic planning and global collaboration, The Partnership grows opportunity, helps create jobs and promotes DSM as the best place to build a business, a career and a future. Learn more at DSMpartnership.com.