Carpenter, Des Moines,IA

Carpenter is a welcoming neighborhood nestled in the southeast part of Des Moines, IA, that offers a charming blend of suburban comfort and urban convenience. Those moving to this area will appreciate the friendly community atmosphere coupled with a variety of local amenities. Whether you’re a family looking for parks and schools or a young professional seeking a quiet place with easy access to city life, Carpenter has something to offer. The neighborhood boasts several green spaces like Carpenter Park, which is perfect for weekend picnics, jogging, or simply unwinding outdoors. Additionally, the local Carpenter Elementary School is highly regarded, making it an attractive spot for those with children.

One of the standout features of Carpenter is its proximity to shopping and dining options. The neighborhood is home to several popular spots such as the Carpenter Corner shopping plaza, which includes grocery stores, coffee shops, and casual eateries. Food lovers will enjoy the variety of nearby restaurants that serve everything from classic American fare to international flavors. For entertainment and leisure, residents can easily visit the nearby Southeast Community Center, where a range of recreational programs and fitness classes are offered. This makes Carpenter a great place for people who enjoy staying active and engaged within their community.

For those concerned about commuting or city access, Carpenter is conveniently located just a short drive from Downtown Des Moines—typically around 10 to 15 minutes depending on traffic. This means residents can enjoy the quieter, family-friendly vibe of Carpenter without sacrificing easy access to the bustling downtown scene. Whether you’re heading to work, exploring the Des Moines Riverwalk, or checking out the vibrant arts and entertainment district downtown, Carpenter’s location strikes a perfect balance. Overall, it’s a neighborhood that combines convenience, community, and comfort, making it a great choice for anyone relocating to Des Moines.

About 33% of the Carpenter population aged 16 and older are married, which is notably lower than average. This could suggest a community with a younger, more transient population—perhaps made up of students, professionals, or renters. It may also reflect a neighborhood that attracts singles or couples without children, contributing to a more independent, urban lifestyle.

With only 34% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Carpenter demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 1,206 residents, Carpenter is notably smaller than many other Des Moines neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

Boasting a population density of 7,425, Carpenter is more densely populated than many other Des Moines neighborhoods, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. The higher concentration of residents contributes to a lively street scene, a strong sense of community, and convenient access to shops, restaurants, and urban amenities just steps from home.

With a lower-than-average age of 28, you're likely to find a noticeably youthful energy and vibrant atmosphere. This younger population brings a dynamic mix of activity, innovation, and community involvement, shaping a neighborhood that feels lively, forward-thinking, and full of opportunity — making it an especially appealing choice for younger adults looking for an active and engaging community.

The Carpenter crime map offers a clear, data-driven look at how crime is distributed throughout the neighborhood, using block group data to highlight both safer areas and potential hot spots. The color-coded map makes it easy to see where crime is more concentrated and where it occurs less frequently, helping residents and prospective buyers better understand local safety patterns. It’s important to note that darker or red zones on the map don’t necessarily mean those areas are unsafe — locations near busy transit hubs, shopping districts, or popular attractions often show higher activity simply due to larger crowds and increased foot traffic.

Housing trends offer valuable insight into the accessibility and character of a neighborhood. In Carpenter, the median home price is $151,350, which is less than many surrounding areas. This affordability makes it an attractive option for first-time buyers, young families, or anyone looking to enter the housing market without a significant financial barrier. Looking at appreciation rates and past market trends in Carpenter can offer valuable insight into the neighborhood’s investment potential. Understanding how home values have changed over time helps buyers gauge future growth, assess long-term stability, and make more informed real estate decisions.

The median rent is around $864, which is on par with many comparable neighborhoods. This balanced pricing offers a mix of affordability and value, making it a practical choice for a wide range of renters.

School ratings in Carpenter combine factors like student performance, graduation rates, and standardized test scores to provide a clear picture of overall educational quality. The use of NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores adds valuable context by offering a consistent national benchmark to see how local schools compare on a broader scale. Additionally, understanding the overall education level achieved by residents in Carpenter can give insight into the community’s priorities and opportunities, helping families make more informed decisions about where to live and how well local schools may support long-term student success.