Laurel Hill, Des Moines,IA

For those considering a move to Des Moines, the Laurel Hill neighborhood offers a compelling blend of peaceful residential charm and convenient access to city amenities. Situated in the southeast part of Des Moines, Laurel Hill is well-known for its friendly community atmosphere and beautifully maintained homes. Whether you're a young professional, a growing family, or someone looking to settle down, this neighborhood provides a welcoming environment with plenty of green space and tree-lined streets. One of the neighborhood’s standout features is the Laurel Hill Park, where residents enjoy walking trails, picnic areas, and well-kept playgrounds, making it a perfect spot for weekend relaxation or family outings.

Laurel Hill’s proximity to Downtown Des Moines is another major advantage, with just a short 10 to 15-minute drive separating residents from the vibrant heart of the city. This close distance means you can easily enjoy the bustling downtown scene, including popular attractions like the Des Moines Art Center, Principal Park for baseball games, and an array of restaurants and entertainment venues. Despite being close to the urban core, Laurel Hill maintains a quieter, suburban feel, allowing residents to enjoy the best of both worlds—urban excitement and peaceful neighborhood life.

The neighborhood also boasts convenient access to key community amenities such as local schools, grocery stores, and medical facilities, which makes daily living hassle-free. For outdoor enthusiasts, besides Laurel Hill Park, nearby Gray’s Lake Park offers beautiful walking trails and water activities just a short drive away. Additionally, the sense of community is strong here, with neighborhood events and friendly neighbors contributing to a warm and inviting atmosphere. All these factors combine to make Laurel Hill a truly attractive place to call home for those relocating to Des Moines.

In Laurel Hill, 30% of residents aged 16 and older are married, which is notably higher than the national average. This could point to a more settled, community-driven neighborhood where long-term residents and homeowners are common. It’s the kind of place where stability, and a close-knit atmosphere make it especially appealing to families and couples looking to put down roots.

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.

Laurel Hill 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 363 residents, Laurel Hill 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 451 people per square mile, Laurel Hill 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 39, 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 Laurel Hill 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 Laurel Hill, the median home price is $141,950, 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 Laurel Hill 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 $838, 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.

Education is a key factor in understanding the character and opportunities within a community like Laurel Hill. School ratings here reflect important indicators such as academic performance, graduation outcomes, and standardized testing, while NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores offer a valuable national comparison to gauge how local schools measure up. Looking at the overall education level of residents in Laurel Hill can also provide meaningful insight into the neighborhood’s focus on learning and long-term growth, helping families choose a community that aligns with their educational goals.