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Des Moines Home Prices 2026: Expert Predictions & Local Data

Des Moines Home Prices 2026 Predictions

What will home prices do this year? Get data-driven predictions for the Des Moines metro—by neighborhood, price range, and season. Make confident decisions backed by local market expertise.

2026 Price Forecast
+2% to +4%
Modest growth with increased inventory

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Neighborhood Analysis

2026 Price Trends by Area

Not all neighborhoods move together. Here's what we're seeing across the Des Moines metro.

West Des Moines

+3.2%
$385K
Median Price
28
Days on Market

Established neighborhoods with strong schools. Steady demand keeps prices stable with modest growth expected.

Urbandale

+2.8%
$345K
Median Price
32
Days on Market

Family-friendly with excellent amenities. Good inventory levels creating balanced conditions for buyers and sellers.

Ankeny

+3.8%
$365K
Median Price
25
Days on Market

Continued growth and development. Strong appreciation driven by schools and new construction activity.

Waukee

+4.1%
$425K
Median Price
22
Days on Market

Fastest growing suburb. Premium pricing reflects top-rated schools and newer housing stock.

Johnston

+3.0%
$375K
Median Price
30
Days on Market

Desirable schools and central location. Consistent performer with reliable appreciation.

Grimes

+4.5%
$395K
Median Price
21
Days on Market

Explosive growth continues. New developments and amenities driving strong demand and appreciation.

$295K
2022
$325K
2023
$345K
2024
$355K
2025
$365K
2026
Actual Predicted
Price Forecast

What's Driving 2026 Prices?

After years of rapid appreciation, the market is normalizing. Here are the key factors shaping prices this year:

  • Inventory ReliefMore homes on the market means less bidding war pressure and more realistic pricing
  • Rate StabilizationMortgage rates settling around 6% are allowing buyers to plan with more certainty
  • Economic StrengthDes Moines' diversified job market continues to support housing demand
  • Affordability AdvantageMetro remains attractive compared to coastal markets, drawing relocations
Affordability

Des Moines: Still One of America's Most Affordable Metros

While prices have risen, Des Moines remains significantly more affordable than the national average—and dramatically cheaper than coastal markets.

Des Moines Metro

$355K

Median home price

National Average

$420K

Median home price

This affordability gap continues to attract remote workers and relocating families seeking better value without sacrificing quality of life.

Des Moines$355K
National Average$420K
Coastal Markets$750K+

Des Moines consistently ranks in the top 10 most affordable major metros for homeownership.

Insurance & Finance

Principal, Wellmark, EMC

Technology

Microsoft, Google, Meta

Healthcare

UnityPoint, MercyOne

Government

State capital employment

Economic Drivers

Job Market Fueling Housing Demand

Des Moines' diversified economy provides the stable employment base that supports healthy housing demand—even when national markets struggle.

  • 3.2% UnemploymentWell below national average, creating steady buyer demand
  • Tech Sector GrowthData centers and tech companies expanding local presence
  • Remote Work InfluxCoastal workers relocating for affordability and quality of life
  • Population GrowthMetro area consistently adding residents year over year
Seasonal Patterns

When to Expect Price Changes

Des Moines follows predictable seasonal patterns. Here's what to expect throughout the year.

Winter
Dec - Feb

Lowest inventory but motivated sellers. Less competition means better negotiating power.

Buyer Advantage
Spring
Mar - May

Peak season begins. Most listings hit the market. Competition increases, prices firm up.

Seller Advantage
Summer
Jun - Aug

Family moves before school. High activity but good inventory. Prices at annual peaks.

Seller Advantage
Fall
Sep - Nov

Market cools down. Motivated sellers may reduce prices. Good time for patient buyers.

Balanced
Common Questions

Price Predictions FAQ

Will Des Moines home prices go up or down in 2026?

Most indicators point to modest price growth of 2-4% in 2026. Higher inventory is moderating the rapid appreciation we saw in 2021-2022, but strong job growth and affordability keep demand steady.

Which neighborhoods are appreciating fastest?

Waukee and Grimes continue to see strong appreciation due to new construction and school districts. Established areas like West Des Moines and Urbandale show steadier, more predictable growth.

Is Des Moines still affordable compared to other cities?

Yes. Des Moines median home prices remain well below the national average, and the metro consistently ranks among the most affordable major metros in the country for homeownership.

How does the job market affect home prices?

Des Moines' diversified economy—insurance, finance, healthcare, and tech—provides stable employment that supports housing demand. Major employers like Principal, Wellmark, and Microsoft continue to drive population growth.

Get Your Free Home Value Estimate

Whether you're thinking about selling, refinancing, or just curious—know what your home is worth in today's market.

Your personalized estimate includes:

  • Current market value based on recent sales
  • Neighborhood trend analysis
  • Projected appreciation outlook
  • Insurance cost considerations

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