Waveland Park, Des Moines,IA

If you’re considering a move to Des Moines, IA, the Waveland Park neighborhood in the southeast part of the city is definitely worth exploring. Known for its charming community vibe and lush green spaces, this area offers a perfect blend of suburban comfort and urban convenience. Families, young professionals, and retirees alike appreciate Waveland Park for its welcoming atmosphere and well-maintained homes. The neighborhood itself is centered around – you guessed it – Waveland Park, a beautiful green oasis featuring walking trails, picnic spots, and a serene pond. It’s a fantastic place to unwind, enjoy nature, or take the kids for an afternoon of play and exploration.

One of the standout features of Waveland Park is its proximity to a variety of local amenities that make day-to-day life easier and more enjoyable. Within the neighborhood and the immediate surrounding area, you’ll find several shopping centers, cozy cafes, and diverse dining options that cater to all tastes. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, nearby recreational facilities and sports complexes provide ample opportunities to stay active and engaged. Plus, residents benefit from strong community involvement, with neighborhood events and gatherings helping newcomers feel right at home. Schools in the area are highly regarded, making Waveland Park especially popular with families prioritizing education.

Despite its peaceful suburban feel, Waveland Park is conveniently located just a short 10 to 15-minute drive northwest of Downtown Des Moines. This close proximity means you can easily take advantage of the city’s vibrant cultural scene, bustling business district, and extensive entertainment options without sacrificing the tranquility of neighborhood living. Whether you’re commuting to work, heading to concerts at the Des Moines Civic Center, or spending weekends exploring local breweries and art galleries downtown, Waveland Park offers the best of both worlds. It’s a neighborhood that truly balances accessibility, community, and quality of life, making it an attractive choice for anyone relocating to Des Moines.

In Waveland Park, 27% 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 27% 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.

Waveland 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 2,587 residents, Waveland 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.

Waveland Park has a population density of 3,831, 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 Waveland 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 prices can reveal a lot about the balance and overall appeal of a neighborhood. In Waveland Park, the median home price is about $237,492, 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 Waveland Park 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 $1,147, 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 Waveland 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 Waveland 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.