Waterbury, Des Moines,IA

If you’re considering a move to Des Moines, the Waterbury neighborhood in the south east part of the city is a charming option that blends suburban comfort with easy access to urban amenities. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, Waterbury offers residents a peaceful environment with tree-lined streets and well-maintained homes. It’s a great spot for families and individuals who appreciate a quieter neighborhood feel but still want to be within a short drive of downtown Des Moines. In fact, the commute to the heart of the city typically takes around 10 to 15 minutes, making it convenient for those working or enjoying the vibrant downtown scene.

One of the standout features of Waterbury is its proximity to several parks and recreational areas. Waterbury Park itself is a favorite local spot, offering playgrounds, walking trails, and plenty of green space for picnics or outdoor activities. Nearby, you’ll find the pleasant Walnut Creek Trail, perfect for biking or jogging while taking in the natural beauty of the area. For those who enjoy community events, Waterbury often hosts neighborhood gatherings and seasonal festivities that foster a tight-knit community vibe. Schools in the area are well-regarded, making it an attractive choice for families with children looking for quality education options close to home.

The neighborhood also provides easy access to shopping and dining without the hustle and bustle of busier parts of Des Moines. Local shops, cozy cafes, and casual restaurants give residents a chance to enjoy everyday conveniences just minutes from their doorstep. Plus, with downtown Des Moines nearby, you can effortlessly experience the city’s cultural attractions like the Des Moines Art Center, the Science Center of Iowa, and a variety of theaters and music venues. Waterbury strikes a nice balance between suburban tranquility and urban excitement, making it a fantastic place to call home when relocating to Des Moines.

In Waterbury, 31% 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 31% 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.

Waterbury 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 3,436 residents, Waterbury 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.

Waterbury has a population density of 2,866, 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 40, 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 Waterbury 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 Waterbury, the median home price is about $280,878, 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 Waterbury 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 $1,119, 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 Waterbury. 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 Waterbury 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.