Chautauqua Park, Des Moines,IA

If you’re considering a move to the southeast side of Des Moines, Chautauqua Park offers a charming neighborhood experience that combines the best of suburban tranquility with convenient city access. Known for its leafy streets and well-maintained homes, this community is perfect for families, professionals, and retirees alike. One of the standout features of Chautauqua Park is its beautiful green spaces, including the neighborhood’s namesake park, which provides a serene spot for picnics, morning jogs, or weekend playtime with the kids. The park often hosts community events, fostering a friendly, close-knit vibe that makes new residents feel right at home quickly.

Chautauqua Park’s location is a major perk for anyone who works downtown but prefers a quieter place to live. It’s just a short 10 to 15-minute drive from the heart of Des Moines, allowing easy access to the bustling city center’s dining, entertainment, and cultural attractions without the hassle of long commutes. For outdoor lovers, the nearby Gray’s Lake Park and the Great Western Trail offer additional recreational options, from biking and walking trails to fishing and paddle boating. Plus, the neighborhood's proximity to local schools and shopping centers means daily errands and family needs are easily met.

One thing that truly sets Chautauqua Park apart is its strong sense of community. Local cafes, small shops, and neighborhood gatherings help foster a welcoming atmosphere that newcomers appreciate. Whether you’re grabbing a coffee at a nearby café or joining a neighborhood garage sale, there’s always a chance to connect with friendly neighbors. If you’re moving to Des Moines and want a neighborhood that balances accessibility with a peaceful, community-oriented environment, Chautauqua Park on the southeast side is definitely worth considering.

About 35% of the Chautauqua Park 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.

41% of people over 16 have children, so you're likely to find a balanced mix of family life and adult-oriented living. The neighborhood tends to feel lively without being overwhelming, with a good blend of young families, professionals, and long-term residents. Parks, playgrounds, and local schools contribute to a friendly community atmosphere, while quieter pockets and mature spaces appeal to those seeking peace and privacy. This balance makes the area welcoming to nearly everyone.

Chautauqua Park 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 525 residents, Chautauqua Park 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.

Chautauqua Park has a population density of 3,650, which strikes a balanced feel when compared to other Des Moines neighborhoods. The area offers just the right mix of activity and breathing room, creating a community that’s lively yet comfortable, with easy access to amenities and everyday conveniences.

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 Chautauqua Park 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 Chautauqua Park, the median home price is $167,400, 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 Chautauqua Park 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 $1,014, 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 quality plays an important role in shaping the overall appeal of a neighborhood like Chautauqua Park. Ratings based on student achievement, graduation rates, and standardized tests — supported by national benchmarks like the NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) — help paint a clearer picture of how local schools perform. Additionally, understanding the education levels of residents in Chautauqua Park offers valuable context about the community’s emphasis on learning and opportunity, helping families make confident decisions about where to settle and invest in their children’s future.