Short Term Lease Apartments for Rent in Des Moines, IA Under $1,200 (47 Rentals)

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Rental terms in Des Moines as short as a month! Perfect when you can't commit to a full year of renting.

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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Renters Insurance 101: What It Is, What It Covers, and Why You Need It

From theft to fire to water damage, the unexpected can happen to any renter. Discover why renters insurance is one of the smartest and most affordable investments you can make as a tenant.

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3612 Ingersoll Ave
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

3612 Ingersoll Ave

3612 Ingersoll AveDes Moines, IA 50312
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Hickman House
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

Hickman House

2221 63rd StDes Moines, IA 50322
  • Utilities Included

How I Find the Perfect Rental for My Clients: A Real Estate Pro's Guide

Finding the right apartment starts with three things: location, cost, and amenities. Get the insider perspective from a real estate professional on how to nail all three.

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Douglas Oaks
Studio Apartments

Douglas Oaks

2829 Douglas AveDes Moines, IA 50310
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Winwood Apartments
$1,045 - $1,495

Total Monthly Price

Base Rent$1,045 - $1,495
Total Monthly Price$1,045 - $1,495
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments Available Now

Winwood Apartments

6031 Meadow Crest DrJohnston, IA 50131
Furnished
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  • Customer Reviewed
  • Utilities Included

Expert Solutions for Creating the Perfect Work-From-Home Apartment Layouts

Create a productive work-from-home apartment setup, even in a small space or studio. Discover layout ideas, desk solutions, and organization tips that actually work.

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Hamlet Apartments
$955 - $1,230

Total Monthly Price

Base Rent$955 - $1,230
Total Monthly Price$955 - $1,230
1 to 3 Bedroom Apartments Available Now

Hamlet Apartments

2210 Ep True PkyWest Des Moines, IA 50265
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The Flats Apartments
Rent Specials
$739 - $1,149

Total Monthly Price

Base Rent$739 - $1,149
Total Monthly PriceVaries
Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments Available Now

The Flats Apartments

3000 University AveWest Des Moines, IA 50266
Corporate Housing
  • Verified
  • Customer Reviewed
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Your Guide to Co-Signers: The Risks, Rewards, and Everything in Between

Thinking about getting a co-signer for your rental application? We break down what a co-signer is, the potential benefits, and the serious risks for both parties. Find out if it's the right choice for you.

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Showing Results 1-47, Page 1 of 1

Des Moines, IA Local Guide

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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Real Estate and Rental Term Glossary | ApartmentHomeLiving.com Renter University

From the letter A all the way to the letter Z, the Real Estate and Rental Term Glossary from the content team at ApartmentHomeLiving.com provides our visitors and shoppers with a little clarity and helpful guidance in navigating the real estate world through definitions and explainers for the top subjects and terms that someone may come across during the leasing, buying, or selling process.

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The common "Rule of Thumb" is that rent should be no more than 30% of your income. How much is that? Enter your monthly income and click "Calculate My Budget" to find out.

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Remember the 3 Rules of Real Estate:
Location, Location, Location!

Explore Des Moines, IA Rentals by Map

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Des Moines, IA Area Reviews

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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 Short-term Des Moines Apartments

What is the Cheapest Short-term apartment in Des Moines?

Currently the most affordable Short-term Apartment in Des Moines is at The Concord Building listed at $630.

How much is the average rent for a Short-term Des Moines Apartment?

The average rent for a Short-term Apartment in Des Moines is $1,273.

What is the largest Short-term Des Moines Apartment for rent?

Today's Short-term apartment with the most square footage in Des Moines is a 1,870 square feet unit starting from $1,724 at Ashworth Pointe & Foxboro Townhomes.

What is the average size for Des Moines Short-term Apartments for rent?

The average size for a Short-term rental in Des Moines is currently at 661 sq ft.

Expert Rental Resources

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.

Articles, How-To's, and Tips

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

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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How Commercial-to-Residential Property Conversions Help the Housing Crisis

Written by: Robin Stewart

Many housing markets throughout America share a common complaint: a lack of affordable rental properties.

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Exploring Rental Options: Apartments, Townhomes, and Lofts - Oh My!

Written by: Robin Stewart

Where do you see yourself? When you think of home, sweet home, are you in a 3/2 apartment? Dreaming of a tall townhome? Maybe an industrial loft heavy on cool vibes is on your visioning board.

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Practical Tips for Renters: How to Identify a Great Rental and Avoid Red Flags

Written by: Robin Stewart

Renters want to find a great apartment, the right place for them, one that checks all the boxes of location, rental cost, amenities, safety, and more.