Garton West, Des Moines,IA

If you’re considering a move to Des Moines, IA, Garton West is a neighborhood you’ll want to explore. Nestled in the northwest part of the city, this area offers a charming blend of suburban comfort and urban convenience. One of the standout features of Garton West is its close-knit community vibe, perfect for families and individuals looking for a welcoming environment. The neighborhood boasts several parks and green spaces, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and those who appreciate scenic walking trails or weekend picnics. Local schools are well-regarded, contributing to the family-friendly appeal of this area.

For those who enjoy a mix of dining, shopping, and entertainment options, Garton West doesn’t disappoint. The nearby Jordan Creek Town Center is a major attraction, offering a wide variety of retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues just a short drive away. This provides residents with plenty of choices for dining out or spending a leisurely day shopping. Additionally, the area is home to several local eateries and coffee shops that add to the unique flavor of the neighborhood. Whether you’re grabbing a quick coffee or enjoying a casual dinner, Garton West has something for everyone.

One of the perks of living in Garton West is its proximity to Downtown Des Moines. Just about a 15 to 20-minute drive southeast, residents can easily access the city’s vibrant downtown area, which features cultural attractions like the Des Moines Art Center, the Science Center of Iowa, and a bustling nightlife scene. Commuting is straightforward, making it convenient for professionals working in the city core yet preferring the quieter pace of suburban life. With its combination of amenities, community spirit, and location, Garton West is a wonderful choice for anyone relocating to the Des Moines area.

35% of the Garton West population aged 16 and up are married, which is in line with national averages. This balance suggests a neighborhood with a healthy mix of families, couples, and single residents, creating a well-rounded community dynamic. You are likely to find a blend of stability and social variety, appealing to both long-term homeowners and younger professionals alike.

With only 35% 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.

Garton West 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 127 residents, Garton West 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.

With a lower than average population density of 1,337 people per square mile, Garton West offers a more open and spacious environment compared to many other Des Moines neighborhoods. This often means quieter streets, less congestion, and a relaxed atmosphere — all while still providing access to the amenities and conveniences of city living.

With an average age of 34, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

The Garton West crime map uses detailed block group boundaries from address-based crime data to visualize crime patterns across the neighborhood, highlighting both low-crime zones and areas with higher levels of reported crime. This crime heat map helps paint a clearer picture of local safety trends, showing how crime can vary from one part of the community to another. Keep in mind that areas with higher activity on the map don’t always equate to dangerous conditions — locations near entertainment districts, major roads, or tourist destinations often see more reports simply due to the larger number of people passing through.

Housing trends offer valuable insight into the accessibility and character of a neighborhood. In Garton West, the median home price is $139,000, 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 Garton West 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 $1,049, 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 Garton West. 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 Garton West 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.