Des Moines County, Iowa Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Des Moines County is located in Iowa with a total population of 38,597. It is the 16th most populous county out of 99 in Iowa. The county encompasses 5 Census-designated places.

Age Demographics

The median age in Des Moines County is 42.2 years. This is 9% higher than the state median of 38.6 years.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Des Moines County is $60,662. This is 17% lower than the state median of $73,147. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 23% lower. The poverty rate stands at 14.1%. This is 29% higher than the state poverty rate of 11.0%. The unemployment rate is 3.2%. This is 13% lower than the state rate of 3.6%. The median home value is $137,000. Housing costs are 30% lower than the state median of $195,900. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.3x, Des Moines County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 72.7% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 2% higher than the state average of 71.5%.

Race & Ethnicity

Des Moines County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 85.2% of all residents. Black or African American residents account for 4.2%. The Asian population (1.1%) is well below the state average of 2.4%.

Education

23.8% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 23% lower than the state rate of 30.9%. Nationally, 35.0% of adults hold at least a bachelor's degree. The high school graduation rate (or equivalent) is 94.0%.