Des Moines city, Washington Demographics & Population 2026
As of 2026, Des Moines city, Washington has a total population of 32,545, the 42nd largest city in Washington, with a median household income of $89,787, which is 5% lower than the state average. The poverty rate is 10.7%.
Key Takeaways
- One of the most racially diverse communities in Washington (diversity index: 70/100).
Des Moines city Quick Facts
How Des Moines city Compares
Median Household Income
Median Home Value
Economy & Housing
Household Income Distribution
Employment
Housing Overview
People & Demographics
Age Distribution
Race & Ethnicity
Diversity Index
This community is exceptionally diverse, with no single racial or ethnic group dominating the population.
State average: 55 | National average: 60
Education
Educational Attainment (Adults 25+)
Des Moines city Rankings in Washington
Explore Washington Rankings
Cities Similar to Des Moines city
These cities in the same state have comparable population and economic profiles.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | Bachelor's+ | Poverty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spanaway CDP | 34,322 | $94,028 | $401,000 | 15.6% | 9.7% |
| University Place city | 34,850 | $94,952 | $578,100 | 43.5% | 8.6% |
| SeaTac city | 31,143 | $76,517 | $483,200 | 26.6% | 10.4% |
| Orchards CDP | 29,716 | $96,893 | $437,100 | 24.5% | 10.9% |
| Mount Vernon city | 35,312 | $73,277 | $429,300 | 25.6% | 16.7% |
Population Overview
Des Moines city is a mid-sized community located in Washington. The total population is 32,545. It ranks as the 42nd most populous out of 631 cities and towns in Washington.
Age Demographics
The median age in Des Moines city is 37.5 years. This is 2% lower than the state median of 38.2 years.
Economy, Income & Housing
The median household income in Des Moines city is $89,787. This is 5% lower than the state median of $94,952. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 14% higher. The poverty rate stands at 10.7%. This is 8% higher than the state poverty rate of 9.9%. The unemployment rate is 7.2%. This is 45% higher than the state rate of 5.0%. The median home value is $539,800. Housing costs are 4% higher than the state median of $519,800. The home-value-to-income ratio is 6.0x. 60.8% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 5% lower than the state average of 63.9%.
Race & Ethnicity
The largest racial or ethnic group in Des Moines city is White (non-Hispanic), making up 45.9% of the population. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 20.8%. The Black or African American population is significantly higher than the state average (10.8% vs 3.8%).
Education
33.2% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 14% lower than the state rate of 38.8%. Nationally, 35.0% of adults hold at least a bachelor's degree. The high school graduation rate (or equivalent) is 89.1%.
Data Sources & Methodology
All demographic data for Des Moines city, Washington is sourced from the U.S. Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023). The ACS collects data from approximately 3.5 million households annually, providing reliable estimates for communities of all sizes. Comparisons are made against Washington state averages and national averages calculated from the same dataset. Rankings reflect the city's position among all 631 Census-designated places in Washington. For official data, visit data.census.gov.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the population of Des Moines city, Washington?
Des Moines city, Washington has a population of 32,545 according to the most recent U.S. Census ACS 5-Year Estimates.
What is the median household income in Des Moines city, WA?
The median household income in Des Moines city is $89,787, which is 14% higher the national median of $78,538.
What is the poverty rate in Des Moines city, WA?
The poverty rate in Des Moines city is 10.7%. This means approximately 3,416 residents live below the federal poverty line.
What is the racial makeup of Des Moines city, Washington?
Des Moines city's population is 45.9% White, 10.8% Black, 20.8% Hispanic/Latino, and 12.0% Asian.
What is the median home value in Des Moines city, WA?
The median home value in Des Moines city is $539,800. The home-value-to-income ratio is 6.0x.
How educated is Des Moines city, Washington?
33.2% of adults (25+) in Des Moines city hold a bachelor's degree or higher, and 11.0% hold a graduate or professional degree.