Des Moines, IA Census Data
Key demographic and economic indicators for Des Moines, Iowa from the 2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.
Updated: 2026-03-23 · Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 2023
Population
212,464
49.5% male · 50.5% female
Median Age
34.6
4.1 below the national average (38.7 yrs)
Median Household Income
$63,966
14,572.0 below the national average ($78,538)
Bachelor's Degree or Higher
29.0%
6.0 below the national average (35.0%)
HS diploma or higher: 87.3%
Poverty Rate
14.9%
2.5 above the national average (12.4%)
Uninsured: 6.7%
Broadband Access
94.5%
4.8 above the national average (89.7%)
Median Home Value
$183,700
Median rent: $1,054 · 60% owner-occupied
Unemployment Rate
5.7%
Labor force participation: 66.6%
Demographics
Race & Ethnicity
Age Distribution
Commute to Work
Des Moines, IA Frequently Asked Questions
What is the population of Des Moines, IA?
The population of Des Moines, IA is 212,464 according to the 2023 American Community Survey 5-year estimates. The median age is 34.6 years.
What is the median household income in Des Moines?
The median household income in Des Moines, IA is $63,966, below the national average of $78,538. Per capita income is $41,192.
What is the poverty rate in Des Moines?
The poverty rate in Des Moines, IA is 14.9%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. About 6.7% of residents lack health insurance.
What percentage of Des Moines residents have a college degree?
29.0% of adults (25+) in Des Moines hold a bachelor's degree or higher, and 87.3% have at least a high school diploma. The national average for bachelor's degree holders is 35.0%.
What is the median home value in Des Moines?
The median home value in Des Moines, IA is $183,700. Median rent is $1,054 per month, with 60% of housing units owner-occupied.
What is the racial makeup of Des Moines?
Des Moines's population is 66.9% White, 12.0% Black, 16.0% Hispanic or Latino, and 6.2% Asian (source: 2023 ACS).