Homes for Rent in Des Moines, IA (218 Rentals)

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The Ultimate Long-Distance Moving Checklist: Tips from a Real Estate Pro

Moving is tough, especially long-distance. Learn how to minimize stress & expenses with proven strategies from a real estate pro, covering everything from logistics to finances.

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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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Cash or credit? Understanding the Importance of Credit Score in Real Estate and Renting

Discover how your credit score impacts your ability to lease or buy a home. Learn how credit scores are determined, how to check yours, and strategies to improve it for real estate success.

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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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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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Des Moines, IA Local Guide

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Written By:
Amanda Delgado
Local Guide Expert

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Des Moines Overview

Looking for a Midwest city with tons to do, great job opportunities, and beautiful surroundings? You’ll get all that — and more — with a move to Des Moines! The Des Moines River winds through the heart of the city, giving plenty of scenic views. And the city’s thriving downtown area offers lots of entertainment and attractions! Living in Des Moines also means you’re just a few hours away from Kansas City, Omaha, Cedar Rapids, and other Midwest towns and cities for a weekend visit. We’ll take a closer look at what’s driving up demand for Des Moines homes for rent — and what life is like here in Niceville USA!

What is the history of Des Moines?

Des Moines started out as Fort Des Moines in the mid-1800s. But it dropped “Fort” from its name and officially became a city in 1857. That’s also the year that Des Moines became the capital of Iowa. A couple of decades later — in 1879 — the world-famous Iowa State Fair moved to the city — and it’s been held here ever since! Des Moines went through rapid growth in the 19th century thanks in large part to coal and the railroad. In the late 1900s, more growth happened, with financial centers and other businesses moving to the area. And Des Moines continues to grow and thrive today!

How is the weather in Des Moines?

Love snowy winters? Des Moines gets a few feet of snow per year, making it a great place for sledding and other winter activities. Average highs during the season are in the 30s, with average lows in the teens. But hot summer weather makes up for that! Des Moines has highs in the 80s during summer and lows in the 60s. You can expect some rainy days this time of year — but plenty of sunny ones, too! Spring and fall have average highs in the 50s and 60s, with average lows in the 40s. Those are great daytime temps for enjoying hiking and other outdoor recreation in Fort Des Moines Park and other places.

How do I get around town?

Where do you plan on looking for Des Moines rental homes? Being in or near the downtown area is most likely your best bet without a car. Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART) runs several bus routes throughout the city. There’s also a shuttle service you can take that goes through downtown from end to end. Flying somewhere? Des Moines International Airport in the southern part of town offers tons of daily international and domestic flights. There’s no direct Amtrak service in Des Moines — but you can catch a train in nearby Osceola. Or there’s a Greyhound bus station in the northeastern corner of the city.

What is the Des Moines commute like?

Looking for a short commute? You’ll be in luck with Des Moines rentals! Commute times in the city are around 20 minutes or less. Even rush hour traffic isn’t as bad here as it is in other cities.  And it’s easy to get to major roads in the area, like I-35 and I-80. In fact, these roads cross right through the city! What’s the busiest road? That would be I-235 between 42nd and 56th Streets. You might experience slightly longer driving delays if you need to take this route to and from work. But overall, you can still look forward to a quick commute as a Des Moines resident!

Why live in Des Moines, IA?

What’s causing so many people to look for homes for rent in Des Moines? Having a downtown filled with a lot to see and do is one reason! But it’s not the only one. Des Moines also has a small-town feel overall — combined with several big-city amenities. That gives you the best of both worlds! The cost of living is another big advantage. It’s lower than many other cities in the Midwest. And more and more businesses are moving here — bringing major employers to the area in the finance, healthcare, and agricultural industries! You’ll also be close enough for weekend getaways in Chicago, KC, or other big cities.

What Des Moines landmarks should I see?

Des Moines has plenty of historical places to visit and learn more about the area. But which should be on your must-see list? There’s the Iowa State Capitol, dating back to 1886. And Terrace Hill, the governor’s residence, is an official National Historic Landmark. Visit Living History Farms, an open-air museum, to explore Iowa’s agricultural past. Head to the State Historical Museum to see Hollywood in the Heartland and other great exhibits! Enjoy a meal in a Victorian mansion at Aposto. Make plans to see Historic Jordan House, Bennet School Museum, the Swanson House — and more!

What is there to do around Des Moines?

Love animals and nature? See tigers, giraffes, and other animals at Blank Park Zoo. Visit the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden to stroll through beautiful outdoor and indoor gardens! Head to the Des Moines Art Center and the Pappajohn Sculpture Park for contemporary works of art. Stock up on local goods at the farmers’ market in the downtown area. Spend sunny afternoons at Gray’s Lake Park, where you can go boating or biking. And, of course, you can make plans to be at the Iowa State Fair each summer!

Where is the best place to move in Des Moines?

Wondering where to find rental homes in Des Moines that fit your needs? Check out the downtown area or Capitol East for neighborhoods in the heart of the city. These give you easy access to all kinds of amenities, public transportation, and attractions. Drake puts you conveniently close to Drake University. East Village offers historic charm, with tons of older buildings, close access to the Des Moines River — and many other perks! South Park is a neighborhood filled with different housing options and several parks.

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:
Location, Location, Location!

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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 Des Moines

What type of rentals are currently available in Des Moines?

There are currently 1277 Apartments for Rent in Des Moines, IA with pricing that ranges from $547 to $4,991. There are also 218 Single Family Homes for rent, Condos, and Townhome rentals currently available in Des Moines ranging from $560 to $3,795.

What is the current price range for Rental Homes in Des Moines?

Today's rental pricing for Homes for Rent, Condos and Townhomes in Des Moines ranges from $560 to $3,795 with an average monthly rent of $1,712.

How much are larger Three and Four Bedroom Rentals in Des Moines?

For those who are looking for larger living arrangements, Three Bedroom Apartments in Des Moines range from $736 to $4,991, while Three Bedroom Homes, Condos, and Townhomes for rent range from $1,095 to $3,000. Four Bedroom Single-Family rentals are also available starting from $1,495 and Four Bedroom Apartments start at $965.

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.

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.

decorative image for The Ultimate Long-Distance Moving Checklist: Tips from a Real Estate Pro article

The Ultimate Long-Distance Moving Checklist: Tips from a Real Estate Pro

Written by: Christine Leonard, Esq.

Hard truth. Moving is never easy. I’ve done it all – from local moves to cross-country relocations From packing to unpacking the last box, I have found moving to be an exhausting, expensive and stressful experience every time.

decorative image for Cash or credit? Understanding the Importance of Credit Score in Real Estate and Renting article

Cash or credit? Understanding the Importance of Credit Score in Real Estate and Renting

Written by: Christine Leonard, Esq.

Throughout the day, think about all the times that you have to pay for something. So many of us reach automatically for a credit card or even our phone for a quick payment.

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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.