Median prices, inventory trends, and neighborhood-by-neighborhood analysis from a local REALTOR®.
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The Des Moines metro continues to be one of the strongest real estate markets in the Midwest. Here's my analysis of where things stand and what buyers and sellers should know for the rest of 2026.
Update, October 2026: rates have moved up since this snapshot. Freddie Mac's weekly 30-year average rose above 7% in late September and was 7.28% on October 1.
New construction in Waukee, Grimes, and Norwalk is adding supply. Resale inventory is still tight in established neighborhoods like Beaverdale and Urbandale. Sellers in high-demand areas still have leverage, but bidding wars are less common than 2023-2024.
Rate buydowns, down payment assistance programs, and employer relocation packages are bringing first-time buyers back. Homes under $300K in Ankeny, Johnston, and Pleasant Hill are moving fastest.
Baby boomers are entering their 70s and 80s. I'm seeing more families helping parents transition from 30-40 year homes to maintenance-free living. This creates inventory in established neighborhoods while driving demand for 55+ communities and patio homes.
Des Moines rental yields are among the best in the Midwest. Multi-unit properties and single-family rentals in Altoona, Pleasant Hill, and East Side neighborhoods can reach cap rates in the high single digits — verify deal-by-deal.
| Neighborhood | Median Price | YoY Change | Avg Days | Market Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ankeny | $315K | +4.8% | 18 | Seller's |
| West Des Moines | $350K | +3.2% | 22 | Balanced |
| Waukee | $375K | +6.1% | 25 | Seller's |
| Johnston | $340K | +4.5% | 20 | Seller's |
| Clive | $330K | +3.8% | 24 | Balanced |
| Urbandale | $285K | +5.2% | 19 | Seller's |
| Grimes | $350K | +7.3% | 21 | Seller's |
| Norwalk | $290K | +8.1% | 16 | Strong Seller's |
| Pleasant Hill | $265K | +5.5% | 17 | Seller's |
| Beaverdale | $250K | +4.2% | 15 | Seller's |
The spring and early summer market (April-July) is your sweet spot. Inventory is still below normal, and buyer demand is strong. Price strategically — overpriced homes sit, but well-priced homes in good condition sell fast.
Don't plan around a rate drop. This year's forecasts called for lower rates, and rates rose instead. Buy a payment you can carry at today's rate; a refinance is a bonus if rates fall, not the plan. Focus on getting the right house in the right neighborhood.
This is an excellent year. Your current home likely has significant equity, and there are more 55+ options available than ever. Read our downsizing guide →
These are metro-wide trends — your specific neighborhood may be different. I provide free, detailed market analyses for any Des Moines metro property.
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