Kirkwood Glen, Des Moines,IA

For those considering a move to Des Moines, IA, Kirkwood Glen offers a charming, family-friendly community in the southeast part of the city. This neighborhood is known for its quiet streets, well-maintained homes, and welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for families, young professionals, or retirees. Residents appreciate the balance of suburban calm with easy access to city amenities. Parks like Kirkwood Glen Park provide green spaces perfect for weekend picnics, jogging, or simply enjoying the outdoors with neighbors. The nearby shopping centers and local eateries add to the convenience, offering everything from casual dining to essential services just minutes away.

One of the standouts of living in Kirkwood Glen is its proximity to a variety of recreational and cultural attractions. The neighborhood is close to the popular Gray’s Lake Park, a favorite spot for walking, biking, and fishing, which makes getting outside easy and enjoyable year-round. Additionally, the nearby Blank Park Zoo offers family-friendly fun and educational experiences just a short drive away. For those who enjoy community events, the area often hosts seasonal festivals and farmer’s markets that showcase local artisans and fresh produce, creating a strong sense of community and connection among residents.

Kirkwood Glen’s location is a great advantage for commuters and city lovers, as Downtown Des Moines is just about a 15 to 20-minute drive to the northwest. This means residents can easily enjoy the vibrant downtown scene, including theaters, museums, and a diverse restaurant scene, while retreating back to their peaceful neighborhood at the end of the day. Whether you’re drawn by the outdoor lifestyle, community vibe, or convenient access to urban amenities, Kirkwood Glen stands out as a wonderful place to call home in Des Moines.

About 26% of the Kirkwood Glen 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.

Kirkwood Glen 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 293 residents, Kirkwood Glen 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.

Boasting a population density of 6,312, Kirkwood Glen is more densely populated than many other Des Moines neighborhoods, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. The higher concentration of residents contributes to a lively street scene, a strong sense of community, and convenient access to shops, restaurants, and urban amenities just steps from home.

With an average age of 32, 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 Kirkwood Glen 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 trends offer valuable insight into the accessibility and character of a neighborhood. In Kirkwood Glen, the median home price is $144,000, 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 Kirkwood Glen 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 $876, 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 Kirkwood Glen. 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 Kirkwood Glen 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.