West Park is a 55+ active adult community located in West Des Moines, Iowa, and the perfect place for anyone who wants to downsize or enjoy a low-maintenance lifestyle! We’re committed to creating a safe, secure environment where active seniors can.....
Des Moines is the state capital of Iowa and its largest city with a population just over 200,000. It is located in the center of the state. Drake University is a prestigious college in town, giving Des Moines the oomph of the arts and a youthful feel. The city is very important in the insurance industry. Photo of Old Main of Drake University courtesy of Wikipedia and
Limitingflame1 (public domain); photo of the The State Capitol building in Des Moines, Iowa, courtesy of Wikipedia and Carol M. Highsmith (public domain).
Watch this short Youtube video prepared by TravelIowa:
Where to Retire in Des Moines and Home Prices
There is at least one active adult community in Des Moines (see link at top left). There are many nice neighborhoods and suburbs to choose from. Home prices during the 4th quarter of 2020 were $236,700, in the Des Moines and West Des Moines area, according to the National Association of Realtors.
What Is Special about Des Moines
As the capital of Iowa, Des Moines is an exciting city for presidential politics since it the host of the Iowa caucuses. It is always highly ranked on Green Cities lists. In 2010, Forbes ranked Des Moines as the best place for business.
What Is Not Special about Des Moines
The crime rate is well above average, and it is cold in winter.
Who Will Like Retirement in Des Moines
Those who admire politics, work in the insurance industry, or admire an artsy, literary feel are happily retired in Des Moines.
Local Economy Is Driven by
insurance companies
Climate and Physical Environment
Des Moines is located in the center of Iowa. The average Jan temp is in the low 20s and the average July temp in the mid 70s.
Restaurants & Cultural Scene
Des Moines is home to the Des Moines Metro Opera, Playhouse, Symphony, and Ballet, as well as an arts center and Riverfront Ampitheater. There are dozens of festivals each year.
Crime
The crime rate is high in Des Moines, as you would expect in a city of this size.
Medical Facilities
There are several hospitals in Des Moines including Iowa Lutheran and the VA Hospital.
Transportation
Des Moines has an extensive skywalk system downtown, one of the largest in the US.
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