Apartments for Rent in Des Moines, IA (1,296 Rentals)

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The Art of the Rental Viewing: What to look for during a property tour

Touring a rental? This guide helps you know exactly what to look for, from safety features to hidden flaws, so you can confidently sign your lease or keep searching.

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Des Moines's Best Affordable Neighborhoods

Learn about Des Moines and the best places to live with original content written by our Local Expert Joseph Isenberg

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Smart Renter's Guide: Calculating Affordable Rent & Housing Costs

Wondering how to determine your rental budget? This comprehensive guide covers everything from the 30% rule to hidden fees and effective budgeting strategies.

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Navigating the Rental Market: Tips for First-Time Renters

Entering the rental market? Learn these simple tips and strategies to avoid common pitfalls and make confident choices. Rent with peace of mind.

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How a Move-In Inspection Can Protect Your Security Deposit

Learn How a Move-In Inspection Can Protect Your Security Deposit from the Renter University at AparmentHomeLiving.com.

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Des Moines, IA Local Guide

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Written By:
Justin Habersaat
Editing Staff

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Des Moines Overview

It’s likely that you only really hear about Des Moines every four years when the presidential caucuses kick off in this city. But that’s only part of the great culture and history of Des Moines. It’s over 150 years old and in that time has grown to be a Midwestern hub of culture and commerce. If you’re in the insurance industry, Des Moines is the absolute best place to live as it is the home of several large insurance companies. Des Moines isn’t just for insurance people, though, it’s a city that keeps growing, and it’s even been attracting more and more young people. If you’re looking for apartments in Des Moines, this must be an exciting time in your life because Des Moines is a great (not to mention inexpensive) place to live.

What is the history of Des Moines?

Des Moines started out as Fort Des Moines, a settlement created to control local Native American tribes. In 1846, the fort was abandoned and soon reoccupied by settlers. Des Moines became Iowa’s capitol in 1857, but the city didn’t really start to grow until a railroad link helped it explode in both importance and size. By 1880, Des Moines had become the largest city in Iowa and has maintained that status ever since, despite the fact it has suffered several destructive floods.

How is the weather in Des Moines?

The city of Des Moines enjoys typical Midwest weather—cold, snow-filled winters and hot, humid summers. Due to the humidity, afternoon thunderstorms are a common occurrence. It cools down a bit in the fall when you can enjoy the bright foliage, and it cools down even more in the winters, with temperatures dipping below 0°F quite often. Snowfall can be heavy but averages out at about 32 inches per season, the city is no stranger to this kind of weather, though, so it’s well-equipped to handle the snow.

How do I get around town?

If you love to walk, you’ll love Des Moines. With over four miles of enclosed pedestrian routes, it boasts one of the most extensive skywalk systems in the country. But if you’re not a huge walker, there are many other ways for you to get around Des Moines. The city has a public transport system called DART (short for Des Moines Area Regional Transit) that consists of buses that travel within the city, as well as out to the suburbs. You’re also completely able to travel under the power of your own car. And if you’re looking to travel and get out of Des Moines, look no further than the Des Moines International Airport which can take you directly to a number of locations inside the United States.

What is the Des Moines commute like?

There are three interstate highways that can be used to travel into Des Moines. I-235 cuts right through the center of the city, while I-35 and I-80 converge and pass more indirectly through the metropolitan area. The system is very traveler-friendly, as anyone who misses an exit to change interstates at one end of the city will simply end up at the convergence of the same interstates at the other end. The average commute time is quite low at just over 19 minutes.

What are the local media outlets?

The main daily Des Moines newspaper is The Des Moines Register. There are several other popular newspapers that publish weekly. Many television stations serve Des Moines, including CBS, NBC, FOX, ABC, and PBS affiliates. The most popular radio station in the area is WHO 1040 am, a news station owned by iHeartMedia.

Why live in Des Moines, IA?

Des Moines is a constantly underrated city. It’s not the most talked about city, but it sure has a lot going on! It’s the home of several professional minor league sports teams, including the Des Moines Buccaneers of the United States Hockey League. Des Moines is also a smart city. It has an impressive public school system and houses five colleges and universities. Iowa’s work force, including that of Des Moines, ranks as one of the best educated in the country due to its 80% high school graduation rate. Des Moines’ real claim to fame is its importance in the presidential election, many candidates set up campaign offices here due to its position as the site of the first caucuses.

What Des Moines landmarks should I see?

Des Moines is home to a lot of history and culture. The Iowa State Capitol building is a common attraction, as it’s one of only two state capitols that feature five domes. Another significant landmark is the Salisbury House and Gardens, which has a place on the National Register of Historic Places. It is a historic estate built in the 1920s that features 42 rooms, authentic 16th-century English oak, and an impressive collection of international art and other artifacts.

What is there to do around Des Moines?

When you live in apartments in Des Moines, you quickly become attached to its unique city life and all the things it has to keep you busy. Catch a concert or hockey game at the Wells Fargo Arena or enjoy a musical at the Des Moines Civic Center. Get your fill of nature at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden and take a look at the exotic animals at the Blank Park Zoo. Des Moines truly has something for everyone.

Any annual festivals or Des Moines events to know?

One of the biggest attractions for Des Moines is the Iowa State Fair, which is perhaps best known for its butter cow and other butter sculptures. Des Moines is also home to the Des Moines Arts Festival every June. For three days, over 200,000 people gather in Western Gateway Park to enjoy visual, performance, musical, and interactive art.

Where are the nearby vacation spots?

The nearby city of Altoona is a great vacation spot. It houses Adventureland Park, an amusement park with over a hundred rides and attractions, and Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino. You can also check out historical sites, Sioux City, and the Missouri River on the legendary Lewis and Clark Trail.

Where is the best place to move in Des Moines?

If you’re looking for apartments in Des Moines, odds are you’ll be looking at places in the suburbs, too, which only multiplies your opportunities. Urbandale, Waukee, and West Des Moines are all great suburbs for apartment living. But if you do want to live right in the city, you’ll be happy to hear that housing in the downtown area is growing. East Village is especially nice, and is made up of an interesting mix of historic buildings and hip new restaurants and stores. To match this eclectic blend, the downtown area offers a growing diversity of housing options that are bound to satisfy your needs and interests. But the best thing about living in Des Moines is that the cost of living is far below the nation’s average. Not only will you be living in one of the coolest cities in America, but you’ll also be saving money.

French for the "City of Monks," Des Moines is the capital and most populous city in Iowa, and a wonderful place to call home. Being an area of the country that is rich with business and industry, the city has a draw for new residents from not only the Midwest, but also beyond. No matter where you are moving from the options of listings for Des Moines apartments for rent are both plentiful in areas all over the Des Moines area, which ensures that even the most discriminating of renter is sure to find an ideal new place to reside.

As your go-to guru apartment search experts, it's our goal to help you help find your next apartment with ease using our vast selection of listings for apartments in Des Moines with all of the pictures, prices, floorplan and community information that you need to find the best place. With listings ranging from unique, luxury apartments to multiple bedroom apartments fit for a family, you can find the place that fits you perfectly using the Des Moines Apartment Living Guide here at ApartmentHomeLiving.com.

Once you have moved in to your new place, a key to getting the most out of the apartment lifestyle is to know the best places to get out of your apartment in Des Moines and enjoy. Adventure awaits all over the city from great shopping all over the city to an array of culinary hot spots like 801 Steak & Chop House, Azalea Restaurant and Sam & Gabe's Italian Bistro. Pretty much any foodie can get a great bite to eat minutes from their apartment in most areas and neighborhoods of Des Moines. Then after a bite, you can head out for dancing, music and drinks at a number of fantastic night clubs and bars found throughout town.

So whether you're considering a move to Iowa or are a native resident eager to get a new 'lease' on life, search from our vast assortment of Des Moines apartments for rent at ApartmentHomeLiving.com and connect with your new home today!

Des Moines, IA
Population: 216,853

Ranked #101

in US Census Population by City

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Remember the 3 Rules of Real Estate:
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Getting Around Des Moines, IA

Walk Score®

53 / 100

Somewhat Walkable

Some errands can be accomplished on foot

Bike Score®

45 / 100

Somewhat Bikeable

Minimal bike infrastructure

Transit Score®

31 / 100

Some Transit

A few nearby public transportation options

What Are Walk Score®, Transit Score®, and Bike Score® Ratings?

  • Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address.
  • Transit Score® measures access to public transit.
  • Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.

Des Moines, IA Area Reviews

  • Parks
  • Entertainment
  • Local Vibes
  • Restaurants
  • Location
  • Traffic
  • Public Transportation
  • Outdoor Access
  • Cost of Living
  • Safety

Joseph • 4+ years in Des Moines

May 14, 2025

Many residents prefer the western suburbs or more distant communities like Indianola, Boone, Ames, or Newton. Certainly those are all viable options.I would never pick Des Moines for its schools, for example. But the city has many fine neighborhoods which are worth a look.

Frequently Asked Questions about Des Moines

How much are Studio apartments in Des Moines?

There are currently 241 Studio Apartments in Des Moines with rent ranges from $450 to $1,763 with an average price of $1,009.

What is the current price range for One Bedroom Des Moines Apartments for rent?

Today's rental pricing for One Bedroom Apartments in Des Moines ranges from $545 to $2,498 with an average monthly rent of $1,184.

What does renting a Two Bedroom Apartment in Des Moines cost?

The monthly rent prices of Two Bedroom Apartments currently available in Des Moines range from $639 to $3,082. Today's average rental price for Two Bedrooms here is $1,305.

How expensive are Des Moines Three Bedroom Apartments?

There are currently 191 Three Bedroom Apartments listings available in Des Moines on ApartmentHomeLiving.com. The pricing ranges from $736 to $5,554 - averaging $1,605 for the location.

Expert Rental Resources

Helpful Apartment Articles, How-To's and Tips

The rental experts at ApartmentHomeLiving.com provide you with top advice, tools, and tips for understanding the leasing process and finding the perfect rental. Here are a few helpful rental and leasing articles from our experts to guide you on your search.

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A Local Expert's Guide To the Top Budget-Friendly Neighborhoods to Rent in Des Moines, Iowa

Written by: Joseph Isenberg

I'm Joe, the ApartmentHomeLiving.com Local Expert for Des Moines and Central Iowa. My parents moved to Central Iowa in 1967, and my family has been here ever since.

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Roommate Matching: Finding the Right Fit and Avoiding Pitfalls

Written by: Cheryl Bowman

A fantastic way to save money and enjoy a built-in community is to share an apartment. However, a bad roommate situation can turn your dream rental into a nightmare.

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The Art of the Rental Viewing: What to look for during a property tour

Written by: Marie Brown

You’ve scrolled through countless listings, walked through a blur of rentals, and finally found what feels like the one. The pictures? Fantastic. The neighborhood seems just right.

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Know Your Budget: Calculating What You Can Realistically Afford When Renting

Written by: Lauren Harrington

Renting an apartment or house isn’t just about looking through online ads, choosing a few apartments or homes you want to tour, filling out an application, and putting down a deposit. Those things are all necessary and important.