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Hillsboro, Des Moines,IA

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Hillsboro in Des Moines, IA, is a charming neighborhood that offers a wonderful blend of suburban comfort and city convenience. Known for its friendly community atmosphere, Hillsboro is an inviting place for families, young professionals, and retirees alike. Residents enjoy peaceful streets lined with mature trees and well-maintained homes, creating a warm and welcoming environment. If you’re moving to this part of southeast Des Moines, you’ll appreciate the mix of quiet residential living combined with easy access to local amenities and parks.

One of the standout attractions in Hillsboro is the nearby neighborhood parks, perfect for outdoor activities and weekend relaxation. The area boasts several green spaces where you can enjoy a morning jog, a family picnic, or simply a stroll with your dog. Hillsboro also benefits from its close proximity to the popular Southeast Polk Community School District, which many families find appealing for its quality education and extracurricular opportunities. For dining and shopping, local favorites are just a short drive away, adding to the convenience without compromising the neighborhood’s peaceful vibe.

Hillsboro’s location in southeast Des Moines means you’re only about a 15-20 minute drive from Downtown Des Moines, making it easy to commute for work or enjoy the city’s cultural events, restaurants, and entertainment options. Whether you’re heading to the Des Moines Art Center, catching a game at Principal Park, or exploring the vibrant East Village district, all are within a comfortable reach. This balance of suburban charm and urban accessibility makes Hillsboro an excellent choice for anyone relocating to Des Moines who wants the best of both worlds.

Community Snapshot

Population 66
Density (People/sqml.) 722
Median Age 44.2
Married Couples
42%
42% of the population of Hillsboro aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
30%
30% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

30% of the Hillsboro 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 30% 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.

Age Breakdown

Hillsboro neighborhood age breakdown chart

Hillsboro 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 66 residents, Hillsboro 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 722 people per square mile, Hillsboro 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.

Home to a population with a higher-than-average age of 44, this area offers a calm and refined atmosphere shaped by experience and tradition. The neighborhood’s more mature demographic fosters a strong sense of community, a relaxed pace of life, and an environment that’s both welcoming and well-established — making it an especially appealing choice for retirees seeking comfort, stability, and connection.

Crime in Hillsboro

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Total Crime Incidents
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Types of Crime

Hillsboro neighborhood age breakdown chart

Hillsboro Crime Map

The Hillsboro crime map provides an in-depth look at crime rates throughout the community, using block group data to reveal both safer pockets and places with more frequent incidents. By visualizing these patterns, the crime map helps residents and newcomers alike better understand the dynamics of neighborhood safety. It’s worth noting that higher-crime areas on the map aren’t always indicative of danger — spots near busy commercial centers, transportation hubs, or popular attractions may naturally show more reports due to increased activity.

Housing

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Home Price $235,600
Median Rent $1,255
People/Household 2.4

Home Price Breakdown

Hillsboro neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 12% Own 88%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 44% After 2010 56%

Types of Homes in the Area

Market Trends

Year-over-Year YoY data

 

Housing prices can reveal a lot about the balance and overall appeal of a neighborhood. In Hillsboro, the median home price is about $235,600, which is on par with many comparable areas. This average pricing reflects a stable, affordable housing market and makes the neighborhood an appealing choice for a wide range of buyers seeking both value and long-term potential. Examining how home prices and appreciation rates in Hillsboro have shifted over time can reveal important clues about the neighborhood’s future value. These trends help potential buyers and investors understand market momentum and determine whether the area is likely to deliver strong returns over the long term.

The median rent is around $1,255, 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.

Walkability & Lifestyle

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Entertainment

AMC Classic Southridge 12
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Food & Drink

Domino's
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Popeyes
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Groceries

Hy-Vee
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ALDI
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Parks

Playground
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Ewing Park
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Shops

Git N Go
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Petco
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Getting Around

Transit Stops

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Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

Unity Point Clinic
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Walgreens
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Health Care

Southridge Dental Group
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Safety

Des Moines Fire and Rescue Department Station 10
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Des Moines Police Academy
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Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
Lincoln High School
2600 Sw 9Th St, Des Moines, IA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Orchard Place School
5412 Sw 9Th Street, Des Moines, IA
High School KG - 12 School Score
Lovejoy Elementary School
801 E Kenyon Ave, Des Moines, IA
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score
Mitchell Early Childhood Center
111 Porter, Des Moines, IA
Elementary School PK - PK School Score
Mccombs Middle School
201 Sw County Line Rd, Des Moines, IA
Elementary School 6 - 8 School Score
River Woods Elementary School
2929 Se 22Nd St, Des Moines, IA
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score
Carlisle High School
430 School St, Carlisle, IA
High School 9 - 12 School Score

Education Level Achieved

School ratings in Hillsboro 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 Hillsboro 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.

Economy

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Income Per Capita $37,695
Household Income $68,286
Unemployment 5.5%

Income Breakdown

Hillsboro Income breakdown chart

Employment by Industry

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Local economic factors help define the character and opportunities within a neighborhood, shaping everything from lifestyle to overall accessibility. Household incomes in Hillsboro average around $68,286, which is about on par with many surrounding neighborhoods. This balanced income level supports a diverse community and offers a stable, well-rounded environment for residents.

The employment landscape can reveal important details about the economic conditions of a neighborhood and the opportunities available to its residents. In Hillsboro, the unemployment rate is 5%, which is higher than average. This elevated rate may point to a more competitive job market or transitional economic conditions, shaping the overall character and pace of the community.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the overall lifestyle like?

Hillsboro in Des Moines offers a comfortable suburban lifestyle with a focus on family-friendly living. Residents enjoy quiet streets, well-maintained parks like Hillsboro Park, and easy access to green spaces, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as walking, biking, and picnics. The neighborhood balances peaceful residential areas with convenient amenities nearby.

Are there any community events or local gatherings throughout the year?

Yes, Hillsboro hosts several community events that foster neighborhood engagement, such as seasonal block parties and neighborhood garage sales. Additionally, residents often participate in city-wide events like the Des Moines Arts Festival and the Downtown Farmers Market, which are easily accessible from Hillsboro.

Are there major highways or transit lines nearby?

Hillsboro benefits from proximity to major highways including Interstate 235, which provides quick access to Downtown Des Moines and surrounding suburbs. Public transit is available via Des Moines Area Regional Transit (DART) bus routes that connect Hillsboro with the broader metropolitan area, making commuting convenient for residents without cars.

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