Des Moines, Iowa, is more than just the state capital. It’s a growing metropolitan area and a major economic engine for the state.
Whether you’re planning a business, analyzing demographics, searching for real estate, or just trying to find local services, understanding Des Moines zip codes is key.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of Des Moines zip codes and their associated demographics. We’ve pulled data primarily from the U.S. Census Bureau and related surveys to give you the most accurate and up-to-date information possible.
Here’s a look at the Des Moines zip codes you should know.
Overview of Des Moines ZIP Codes
Des Moines is covered by a total of 66 ZIP codes, which are divided into three types: standard, PO Box, and unique. Here’s a little more about each type:
- Standard. There are 25 standard ZIP codes in Des Moines. These are the ZIP codes used for residential and business addresses.
- PO Box. The 13 PO Box ZIP codes are, as the name suggests, assigned to post office boxes.
- Unique. The remaining 28 ZIP codes are unique ZIP codes, which are assigned to specific organizations or businesses.
The ZIP codes of Des Moines cover a pretty wide area. Here are a few facts about the city’s footprint:
- Land area: 274.70 square miles
- Water area: 5.20 square miles
Des Moines is the main city in the Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA Core Based Statistical Area (CBSA). It’s near several other cities, including West Des Moines, Ankeny, and Urbandale.
Population Demographics Across Des Moines ZIP Codes
If you’re considering a move, it can be helpful to know a bit about the people who already call a place home.
Total Population and Density
The Des Moines metro area is growing rapidly. The total population covered by all Des Moines ZIP codes is 417,325. Within that area is a Census Designated Place (CDP) that closely corresponds with the city limits; the CDP population is 214,133.
The population density of the Des Moines area is 1,517.55 people per square mile.
Age and Gender Distribution
Like much of the Midwest, Des Moines has a relatively even distribution of age groups. You’ll find a good mix of young families, working professionals, and retirees.
The gender distribution is also fairly balanced, with a slight majority of females, as is typical in most urban areas.
Household and Family Data
Des Moines reflects a mix of household types, from single-person residences to large families. The average household size is 2.40, and the average family size is 3.12.
In total, there are 90,808 households within the Des Moines area.
Income and Housing Data by ZIP Code
Let’s take a look at some of the income and housing characteristics of Des Moines to give you a better feel for the city.
Median Household Income
The median household income in Des Moines is around $79,652. This is important because it gives you a sense of the economic well-being of the area. Whether that’s higher or lower than the state or national average can tell you a lot about the cost of living, job opportunities, and the overall financial health of the community.
Income Trends Over Time
Looking at income estimates over time, say from 2011 to 2023, can show you how the economic landscape has changed. Has the median household income gone up, down, or stayed relatively the same? What about the income for families versus non-families? Analyzing these trends can help you understand what factors might be at play, like job growth, industry shifts, or even changes in the population.
For example, if you see a steady increase in median household income, it might suggest a growing economy with more high-paying jobs. On the other hand, a decline could indicate economic challenges or a shift towards lower-wage industries.
Housing Characteristics
Des Moines has a total of roughly 164,988 housing units. That includes a mix of different types of housing, from single-family homes to apartments and condos. The variety of housing options can influence everything from the feel of a neighborhood to the cost of living.
While I don’t have specific data on average house values right now, it’s generally understood that Des Moines offers a relatively affordable housing market compared to many other metropolitan areas. You can find a range of options to suit different budgets and lifestyles.
Business and Economic Activity by ZIP Code
Des Moines is a center of business and economic activity for the state of Iowa. Here’s a snapshot of some of the key metrics:
Business Establishments
There are 5,496 businesses operating in Des Moines. These businesses span a wide variety of sectors, including retail, manufacturing, and professional services. You’ll find everything from small, locally owned boutiques to large, multinational corporations here.
Employment and Payroll
Des Moines businesses employ a total of 139,471 people, with an annual payroll totaling $9,587,148,000. That’s almost ten billion dollars in wages paid out to Des Moines residents each year!
The distribution of employment across different sectors is fairly diverse, with significant numbers of people working in finance, insurance, healthcare, and government. The city also has a growing tech sector, with many startups and established tech companies calling Des Moines home.
Business Mailboxes
The number of business mailboxes in Des Moines is 6,315, a small fraction of the 96,584 residential mailboxes. This disparity highlights the fact that while Des Moines is a hub for business, it’s also a vibrant residential community.
The economic landscape of Des Moines is constantly evolving, with new businesses opening and existing businesses expanding. This makes Des Moines an attractive place to live, work, and invest.
Other Key Demographics and Statistics
Beyond zip codes, here are a few other details you might find interesting as you consider a move to Des Moines.
Education Levels
Around 38% of Des Moines residents have a bachelor’s degree or higher, compared to the national average of 35%. Higher levels of education can signal a more skilled workforce, which tends to attract businesses and investment, contributing to a stronger local economy.
Healthcare Coverage
Des Moines has a relatively low percentage of people without healthcare coverage: just under 5%. Having access to health insurance is a huge factor in financial stability and overall well-being, as it helps residents access preventive care and manage unexpected medical expenses.
Area Codes and Time Zone
The area code for Des Moines is 515. If you’re planning a visit or need to make a call, keep that in mind! Des Moines observes Central Time (GMT -06:00), so you’ll need to set your clocks accordingly if you’re coming from another time zone.
Final Thoughts
Des Moines is a city of diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique character reflected in its ZIP code. Understanding the demographics associated with each ZIP code – from population density to household income – is crucial for many reasons. Businesses can use this information to target their services, while city planners can leverage it to improve resource allocation and community development. Even residents can benefit by gaining a deeper understanding of their community’s composition.
However, it’s important to remember that demographic data is constantly evolving as Des Moines continues to grow and change. Ongoing analysis is key to staying informed about the latest trends and ensuring that decisions are based on the most accurate information available. As Des Moines continues to flourish, understanding its ZIP codes remains an important tool for navigating its dynamic landscape.