Highland Park, Des Moines,IA

If you're considering a move to the southeast part of Des Moines, Highland Park offers a charming blend of historic appeal and modern convenience. This neighborhood is well-known for its beautiful tree-lined streets and classic early 20th-century homes, which give it a warm, welcoming vibe. Residents appreciate the strong sense of community here, with local events and friendly neighbors making it easy to settle in and feel at home. Whether you're a young professional, a family, or someone looking to enjoy a quieter pace of life, Highland Park provides a great balance of suburban comfort with city amenities just a short drive away.

One of the standout attractions in Highland Park is the Highland Park Golf Course, a scenic, well-maintained course that draws golf enthusiasts of all skill levels. The neighborhood also boasts several parks and green spaces, perfect for weekend picnics, jogging, or simply unwinding outdoors. For those who love a bit of history, the neighborhood’s architecture and local landmarks offer a glimpse into Des Moines’ past, making strolls through the area both enjoyable and educational. Additionally, the community embraces a variety of dining options, cozy cafes, and local shops that add to the neighborhood’s charm and convenience.

When it comes to commuting, Highland Park is impressively close to Downtown Des Moines, with just a 10 to 15-minute drive separating the two. This proximity allows residents to easily access the city's vibrant arts scene, entertainment venues, and employment opportunities without sacrificing the quieter lifestyle Highland Park provides. Public transportation options are also available, making it easy for those without a car to get around. Overall, Highland Park is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to enjoy the best of Des Moines living — a friendly neighborhood atmosphere combined with easy access to the city’s hustle and bustle.

About 34% of the Highland 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.

With only 26% 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.

Highland Park demographic details provide a clearer picture of what life is like in the neighborhood, offering insight into its character, community, and overall lifestyle. With a population of 10,411, the number of residents who reside in Highland Park is about average in size compared to other Des Moines neighborhoods, striking a perfect balance between energy and tranquility. It’s large enough to offer plenty of amenities, activities, and a vibrant local scene, yet small enough to maintain a welcoming community feel and a more relaxed pace of life.

Highland Park has a population density of 2,121, 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 an average age of 37, 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 Highland Park 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 Highland Park, the median home price is $139,494, 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 Highland 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 $1,060, 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 Highland Park 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 Highland Park 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.