Apartments for Rent in West Des Moines, IA (337 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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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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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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West Des Moines, IA Local Guide

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West Des Moines Overview

West Des Moines is a nice, medium-sized town with just over 56,000 residents. Over the years, it has made many of the top 100 lists of best places to live as well as one of the best Hipster Cities in 2014 and 2015. This is due to the combination of great people, great food, and a fun loving and inclusive culture.

What is the history of West Des Moines?

West Des Moines started out as home to the Fox and Sac tribes. In 1893, the city was incorporated under the name of Valley Junction. West Des Moines was home to the Pacific, Rock Island, and Chicago Railroad switching facilities which lead to an increase in population. In 1937 the city's name was changed to West Des Moines.

How is the weather in West Des Moines?

You will certainly get four seasons in this town. The average high in January is 31 degrees and the average high in July is 86 degrees. It can be quite cold with lows in the teens during the winter. Plan on about 36 inches of rain and 35 inches of snow each year.

How do I get around town?

West Des Moines has a bus system called DART that services the whole city. Downtown, you can drive or even bike to get where you need to go. Walking is also possible in this city. Des Moines International Airport is just a quick drive away.

What is the West Des Moines commute like?

The average commute time in Wes Des Moines is twenty-one minutes. There are several highways in the area. These include I-235, I-80, and I-35. These highways will take you through and around West Des Moines in all directions. Highway 69 also goes through the heart of the city.

What are the local media outlets?

If you're looking to listen to a little music, you'll have lots of options here. Radio stations in the area include KRLS - Adult Contemporary, KIOA - Classic Hits, KCOB - Country, and KGRA - Classic Rock. Newspapers in the area include the Des Moines Register and the El Latino Newspaper.

Why live in West Des Moines, IA?

There are a lot of things that make West Des Moines a special place to live, and that starts with Historic Valley Junction. It is a great place to shop or relax at a cafe. Add to that, the variety of companies to work for, and you've got a great town for both business and fun. Situated in the Raccoon River valley, the area provides lots of places to enjoy the great outdoors especially in the summer months. Finally, you won't find nicer or more welcoming people anywhere. You will feel as if you are part of the community as soon as you start looking for apartments in West Des Moines.

What West Des Moines landmarks should I see?

A must see in West Des Moines is the Jordan House Museum and the Wes Des Moines Historical Society. Both will give you a good feel for the city. Living History Farms is a great place for the family to spend the day and the John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park is always fun.

What is there to do around West Des Moines?

Whether you enjoy the outdoors or spending time inside a quiet shop reflecting on the universe, there is something here for you. Valley Junction has antique stores and funky shops to explore while the Raccoon River Park is a great place to spend an afternoon.

Any annual festivals or West Des Moines events to know?

There are quite a few annual festivals in and around West Des Moines. These include the Winter Jam in January, the Iowa Humanities Festival in April, the America on Tap for beer lovers, and the Iowa Chocolate Festival in May.

Where are the nearby vacation spots?

If you're looking to get away, then Iowa City is a nice college town with shops and coffee houses and the like, and it is a short drive. Also, in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, you'll find the Effigy Mounds National Monument which is a great location. Of course, Chicago is nearby with all of its wonderful blues music and festivals and fun.

Where is the best place to move in West Des Moines?

If you are looking for apartments in West Des Moines and want a quiet neighborhood with good schools, you will want to consider the Waukee area. For those looking for some fun and nightlife, you'll want to check out the Jordan Creek area when searching for West Des Moines apartments. Downtown is great for the single person or a couple that is looking to be in the middle of everything. In the end, it is a great city and you can't go wrong no matter where you're looking for West Des Moines apartments.

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West Des Moines, IA

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Getting Around West Des Moines, IA

Walk Score®

44 / 100

Car-Dependent

Most errands require a car

Bike Score®

42 / 100

Somewhat Bikeable

Minimal bike infrastructure

Transit Score®

1 / 100

Minimal Transit

It may be possible to get on a bus

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.

Frequently Asked Questions about West Des Moines

How much are Studio apartments in West Des Moines?

There are currently 95 Studio Apartments in West Des Moines with rent ranges from $595 to $1,558 with an average price of $954.

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

Today's rental pricing for One Bedroom Apartments in West Des Moines ranges from $574 to $2,901 with an average monthly rent of $1,124.

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

The monthly rent prices of Two Bedroom Apartments currently available in West Des Moines range from $682 to $3,100. Today's average rental price for Two Bedrooms here is $1,254.

How expensive are West Des Moines Three Bedroom Apartments?

There are currently 86 Three Bedroom Apartments listings available in West Des Moines on ApartmentHomeLiving.com. The pricing ranges from $574 to $3,268 - averaging $1,502 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.

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 to Negotiate Your Apartment Lease and Save Money

Written by: Christine Leonard, Esq.

Everything is a negotiation in real estate! 

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The Rental Move-In Inspection Checklist: A Guide for Renters

Written by: Trey Huguley

The move-in inspection checklist is a crucial tool for both tenants and landlords. This checklist, provided by the team at ApartmentHomeLiving.com, helps document the condition of an apartment at the time of move-in.

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Your Guide to Co-Signers: The Risks, Rewards, and Everything in Between

Written by: Christine Leonard, Esq.

For many people, obstacles can arise during the rental application process for a variety of issues.