Magnolia Park, Des Moines,IA

If you’re considering a move to Des Moines and want a neighborhood that offers a perfect blend of charm and convenience, Magnolia Park in the southeast part of the city is worth exploring. This area is known for its friendly community atmosphere and well-maintained homes, making it ideal for families, young professionals, and retirees alike. Magnolia Park offers a quiet suburban feel while still being close enough to enjoy the vibrancy of city life. The neighborhood’s tree-lined streets and open spaces create a welcoming environment that truly feels like home.

One of the standout attractions in Magnolia Park is the expansive Raccoon River Park, which offers residents plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. Whether you enjoy walking trails, picnic areas, or fishing, the park is a fantastic spot to relax and enjoy nature just minutes from your doorstep. Additionally, the neighborhood benefits from nearby shopping centers, local restaurants, and essential services, ensuring that everything you need is within easy reach. Families appreciate the proximity to quality schools and community centers that host various activities and events throughout the year.

For those working downtown or wanting to explore the cultural hub of Des Moines, Magnolia Park’s location is especially convenient. It’s just a short 10-15 minute drive northwest to downtown, where you can find a thriving arts scene, diverse dining options, and plenty of entertainment venues. Whether you want to catch a show at the Des Moines Civic Center, explore the Science Center of Iowa, or enjoy a night out in the East Village, living in Magnolia Park means you’re never far from the action while enjoying a peaceful neighborhood retreat at the end of the day.

35% of the Magnolia Park 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 35% 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.

Magnolia Park 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 1,226 residents, Magnolia Park 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.

Magnolia Park has a population density of 5,291, 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 34, 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 Magnolia Park 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 Magnolia Park, the median home price is $162,180, 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 Magnolia 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 $989, 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 Magnolia Park. 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 Magnolia Park 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.