Living in Greater Des Moines
A welcoming city where education, opportunity and cultural diversity abound
Greater Des Moines has a relaxed metropolitan atmosphere and an area population of nearly 700,000 residents.
The new DMU campus will be located in West Des Moines, a city suburb just over 10 miles from the vibrant downtown center of Des Moines. The metro area has 12 colleges and universities, and nearly 300 houses of worship that represent 79 different denominations or faiths. With miles of bike paths, several lakes and more than 130 parks in the greater Des Moines area, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors. Des Moines and its suburbs have safe neighborhoods, great public schools, and many kid-focused events, attractions, and programs. Greater Des Moines is a wonderful place to raise a family, and as the third largest insurance center in the world, our city offers an abundance of employment opportunities, low housing costs and a high standard of living.
“Des Moines is absolutely an amazing city. You get the big city feel without the big city traffic or crime. Another great part about Des Moines is that there are so many really nice suburbs to choose from if you don’t want to live in the city, such as Johnston, Clive, Urbandale or Altoona. With having breweries, restaurants, shopping and more all super-close on top of going to a school that I love, I could not be happier that I chose Des Moines and DMU.”
Amanda Hasty, D.P.M.'23
Housing opportunities: Finding your perfect place
The areas around the new DMU campus offer plenty of reasonably priced apartments a short distance from campus. Restaurants, grocery stores, coffee shops, pharmacies, banks and a variety of shops are located nearby.
Downtown Des Moines is just a ten-minute drive east of campus and features a city in the midst of revitalization. Treat yourself to an afternoon at the public library, events center, sculpture park, or farmers' market. Visit the many unique restaurants, eclectic shops, art galleries, and entertainment venues. Downtown has evolved into a contemporary urban center with something for everyone.
Places to worship: Find a space to practice your faith
The residents of Greater Des Moines come from all around the world, and the city has countless religious services and institutions to serve the surrounding communities.
Fine dining: Nearby restaurants and grocery options
The local businesses and restaurants that surround DMU are some of the best the city has to offer. An abundance of ethnic grocery stores and a thriving culinary scene make the Des Moines metro a great place to live – and eat.
