Gray's Lake, Des Moines,IA

Gray's Lake is a charming and vibrant neighborhood in southeast Des Moines that offers a wonderful blend of natural beauty and urban convenience. One of the biggest draws here is Gray's Lake Park itself, a stunning 166-acre green space centered around a serene lake. It’s perfect for residents who love the outdoors, featuring a popular 2.8-mile trail for walking, jogging, and biking. The park also includes a sandy beach area, a sandy volleyball court, and plenty of picnic spots, making it a favorite hangout for families and fitness enthusiasts alike. If you’re someone who enjoys an active lifestyle paired with scenic views, Gray’s Lake is a real gem.

Living in Gray’s Lake means you’re never far from the buzz of downtown Des Moines, which is just a quick 10-minute drive or a bike ride away. This proximity allows residents to easily enjoy the city’s rich cultural scene, including theaters, museums, and a variety of restaurants and craft breweries. After a day in the city, coming back to the peaceful lakeside neighborhood feels like a breath of fresh air. The community is known for its friendly vibe and well-maintained streets, with a mix of modern condos, townhomes, and charming older homes that cater to different tastes and budgets.

Beyond the natural allure and access to downtown, Gray's Lake neighborhood boasts a growing number of local businesses and eateries that contribute to its neighborhood charm. You’ll find cozy coffee shops and eclectic dining options nearby, perfect for grabbing a quick bite or enjoying a relaxed meal with friends. Community events and activities often take place around the park area, fostering a strong sense of belonging among residents. For families, couples, or singles looking to settle in a lively yet serene part of Des Moines, Gray’s Lake offers an ideal balance of outdoor fun, community spirit, and city accessibility.

28% of the Gray's Lake 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 28% 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.

Gray's Lake 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 2,669 residents, Gray's Lake 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 1,993 people per square mile, Gray's Lake 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 38, 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 Gray's Lake 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 Gray's Lake, the median home price is $185,118, 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 Gray's Lake 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 $1,083, 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 Gray's Lake 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 Gray's Lake 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.