As a seasoned real estate expert, I’ve had the pleasure of exploring many neighborhoods across the United States. But there’s something special about Des Moines, Iowa. It’s a city that’s often overlooked, but it’s a hidden gem, especially for first-time homebuyers. The city offers a blend of urban and suburban living, with a cost of living that’s significantly lower than the national average. 🏡
Why Des Moines, Iowa?
Des Moines is a city that’s growing in popularity, and for good reason. It’s been ranked as one of the best places to live in the U.S., thanks to its low cost of living, strong job market, and high quality of life. Plus, it’s a city that’s rich in culture and history, with a vibrant arts scene, plenty of outdoor activities, and a strong sense of community. But what really sets Des Moines apart is its affordability, especially when it comes to housing. 🌆
1. Beaverdale
Beaverdale is a charming neighborhood known for its unique brick homes, often referred to as “Beaverdale Bricks”. The median home price here is around $180,000, making it an affordable option for first-time homebuyers. Plus, it’s home to some of the city’s best schools, making it a great choice for families. 🏫
2. Waveland Park
Waveland Park is another great option for first-time homebuyers. The neighborhood is known for its beautiful parks and golf course, and it’s just a short drive from downtown. The median home price here is around $190,000. 🌳
3. Drake
Drake is a vibrant neighborhood that’s home to Drake University. It’s a great place for young professionals, with a median home price of around $150,000. Plus, it’s close to downtown, making it a convenient option for those who work in the city. 🎓
4. Highland Park
Highland Park is a historic neighborhood with a strong sense of community. The median home price here is around $130,000, making it one of the most affordable neighborhoods in Des Moines. Plus, it’s home to some of the city’s best restaurants and shops. 🍽️
5. Southwestern Hills
Southwestern Hills is a quiet, suburban neighborhood that’s perfect for families. The median home price here is around $200,000, and it’s home to some of the city’s best schools. Plus, it’s just a short drive from downtown. 🚗
6. Merle Hay
Merle Hay is a diverse neighborhood with a strong sense of community. The median home price here is around $140,000, making it an affordable option for first-time homebuyers. Plus, it’s home to Merle Hay Mall, one of the city’s main shopping destinations. 🛍️
7. Indianola Hills
Indianola Hills is a quiet, suburban neighborhood that’s perfect for families. The median home price here is around $150,000, making it an affordable option for first-time homebuyers. Plus, it’s close to downtown, making it a convenient option for those who work in the city. 🏙️
8. Union Park
Union Park is a historic neighborhood that’s known for its beautiful parks and recreational facilities. The median home price here is around $130,000, making it one of the most affordable neighborhoods in Des Moines. Plus, it’s just a short drive from downtown. 🌳
9. Capitol Park
Capitol Park is a diverse neighborhood that’s home to the Iowa State Capitol. The median home price here is around $120,000, making it one of the most affordable neighborhoods in Des Moines. Plus, it’s close to downtown, making it a convenient option for those who work in the city. 🏛️
10. Waterbury
Waterbury is a historic neighborhood that’s known for its beautiful homes and tree-lined streets. The median home price here is around $250,000, making it a bit pricier than other neighborhoods on this list, but still affordable compared to many other cities. Plus, it’s home to some of the city’s best schools, making it a great choice for families. 🌳
FAQs
1. What is the average home price in Des Moines, Iowa?
The average home price in Des Moines, Iowa is around $150,000, which is significantly lower than the national average. 🏡
2. Is Des Moines a good place to live?
Yes, Des Moines is a great place to live. It’s been ranked as one of the best places to live in the U.S., thanks to its low cost of living, strong job market, and high quality of life. Plus, it’s a city that’s rich in culture and history, with a vibrant arts scene, plenty of outdoor activities, and a strong sense of community. 🌆
3. Is Des Moines a good place to buy a house?
Yes, Des Moines is a great place to buy a house, especially for first-time homebuyers. The city offers a blend of urban and suburban living, with a cost of living that’s significantly lower than the national average. Plus, it’s a city that’s growing in popularity, making it a great investment. 🏡
Conclusion
Des Moines, Iowa is a city that’s often overlooked, but it’s a hidden gem for first-time homebuyers. With its blend of urban and suburban living, low cost of living, and high quality of life, it’s a city that’s worth considering. Plus, with neighborhoods like Beaverdale, Waveland Park, and Drake offering affordable housing options, it’s a city that’s accessible for all. So if you’re a first-time homebuyer looking for a place to call home, don’t overlook Des Moines. You might just find your dream home here. 🏡
