Linden Heights, Des Moines,IA

If you're considering a move to Des Moines, IA, Linden Heights in the southeast part of the city offers a charming blend of suburban comfort and urban convenience. This neighborhood is known for its tree-lined streets and a strong sense of community that makes it an inviting place for families, young professionals, and retirees alike. Residents enjoy easy access to local parks, such as the popular Linden Park, which provides plenty of green space for outdoor activities, picnics, and weekend strolls. The neighborhood also boasts a variety of well-maintained schools and community centers, making it a great choice for those prioritizing education and family-friendly amenities.

One of the standout attractions in Linden Heights is the Linden Market, a local favorite that brings together farmers, artisans, and food vendors, creating a lively weekend gathering spot. This farmers market is not only a great place to pick up fresh produce but also serves as a hub for community events and seasonal festivals, fostering a strong local culture. Additionally, the neighborhood has a number of cozy cafes, unique boutiques, and casual dining spots, perfect for enjoying a relaxed afternoon or meeting up with friends. For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby Raccoon River Greenbelt offers scenic trails for biking and hiking, making it easy to stay active while soaking in nature.

While Linden Heights offers a peaceful residential vibe, it's also conveniently located about 10 to 15 minutes from Downtown Des Moines, depending on traffic. This proximity means residents can easily commute to the city's bustling center for work, entertainment, and cultural activities without sacrificing the quieter atmosphere of their neighborhood. With quick access to major roads and public transportation options, Linden Heights strikes a wonderful balance between suburban living and urban accessibility. If you're looking for a welcoming community with plenty of amenities and a short drive to downtown attractions like the Des Moines Art Center and the vibrant East Village, Linden Heights is definitely worth considering for your next home.

In Linden Heights, 33% 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 33% 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.

Linden Heights 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 553 residents, Linden Heights 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 1,423 people per square mile, Linden Heights 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.

The Linden Heights 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 prices can reveal a lot about the balance and overall appeal of a neighborhood. In Linden Heights, the median home price is about $329,533, 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 Linden Heights 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 $1,101, 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 Linden Heights 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 Linden Heights 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.