Waveland Woods, Des Moines,IA

If you’re considering a move to Des Moines, Waveland Woods offers a charming and welcoming community that blends suburban tranquility with convenient city access. Nestled in the southeast part of Des Moines, this neighborhood is known for its tree-lined streets, well-maintained homes, and friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re a young professional, a growing family, or someone looking to settle down in a peaceful area, Waveland Woods provides a comfortable living environment with plenty of green spaces and local amenities to enjoy.

One of the biggest standouts of Waveland Woods is its proximity to great parks and recreational areas. Nearby, you’ll find lush green spaces like the Waveland Golf Course and the expansive Gray’s Lake Park, perfect for weekend activities such as hiking, biking, or simply relaxing by the water. The neighborhood also boasts easy access to community facilities including local schools, shopping centers, and dining options that cater to a variety of tastes. For families, the area is served by well-regarded schools, adding to its appeal as a family-friendly neighborhood.

In terms of convenience, Waveland Woods is just a short drive from Downtown Des Moines, making it easy to enjoy the vibrant city life without sacrificing the peace of suburban living. Within a 10-15 minute commute, residents can reach downtown’s bustling business district, cultural venues, restaurants, and entertainment hubs. This balance of accessibility and serenity makes Waveland Woods a sought-after neighborhood for those who want the best of both worlds—a tight-knit community feel with all the perks of city proximity.

In Waveland Woods, 24% 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 24% 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 Woods 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 1,168 residents, Waveland Woods 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 Woods has a population density of 2,772, 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 41, 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 Woods crime map provides an in-depth look at crime rates throughout the community, using block group data to reveal both safer pockets and places with more frequent incidents. By visualizing these patterns, the crime map helps residents and newcomers alike better understand the dynamics of neighborhood safety. It’s worth noting that higher-crime areas on the map aren’t always indicative of danger — spots near busy commercial centers, transportation hubs, or popular attractions may naturally show more reports due to increased activity.

Housing prices can reveal a lot about the balance and overall appeal of a neighborhood. In Waveland Woods, the median home price is about $229,725, 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 Woods 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 $1,149, 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 Woods. 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 Woods 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.