River Bend, Des Moines,IA

If you're considering a move to Des Moines, IA, the River Bend neighborhood in the southeast part of the city offers a charming blend of suburban comfort and vibrant community life. Known for its peaceful streets and family-friendly atmosphere, River Bend is a great spot for those seeking a quieter lifestyle without losing access to city conveniences. The neighborhood boasts several parks and green spaces, perfect for outdoor activities and weekend picnics. One of the standout attractions is the nearby River Bend Nature Center, which provides residents with walking trails, educational programs, and beautiful natural scenery to explore year-round.

For families and individuals alike, River Bend’s community amenities make it a delightful place to settle down. The neighborhood is well-supported by quality schools and local shops, contributing to the welcoming vibe that new residents appreciate. Additionally, the nearby River Bend Golf Club offers a lovely course for golf enthusiasts, making it easy to enjoy a leisurely round close to home. Whether you’re into jogging along scenic paths, hitting a few golf balls, or simply enjoying community events, River Bend has something to offer. Plus, the neighborhood’s well-maintained sidewalks and bike-friendly routes encourage a healthy, active lifestyle.

One of the perks of living in River Bend is its convenient proximity to Downtown Des Moines, which is only about a 15 to 20-minute drive away. This means residents can easily commute for work or enjoy the vibrant dining, entertainment, and cultural options downtown without sacrificing the tranquility of suburban living. With its blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and easy access to the city’s core, River Bend is a standout neighborhood for anyone relocating to Des Moines who values both comfort and convenience in their new community.

About 33% of the River Bend 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 25% 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.

River Bend 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 2,551 residents, River Bend 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.

River Bend has a population density of 2,917, 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 River Bend crime map uses detailed block group boundaries from address-based crime data to visualize crime patterns across the neighborhood, highlighting both low-crime zones and areas with higher levels of reported crime. This crime heat map helps paint a clearer picture of local safety trends, showing how crime can vary from one part of the community to another. Keep in mind that areas with higher activity on the map don’t always equate to dangerous conditions — locations near entertainment districts, major roads, or tourist destinations often see more reports simply due to the larger number of people passing through.

Housing trends offer valuable insight into the accessibility and character of a neighborhood. In River Bend, the median home price is $146,967, 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 River Bend 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 $903, 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 River Bend 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 River Bend 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.