Home Values in West Des Moines, Iowa — 2026 Market Report
Updated March 2026 | Seller's Market | +3.9% YoY
The median home value in West Des Moines, Iowa is $295,000 as of March 2026, which is below the national median of $400,000. Home values in West Des Moines have increased by 3.9% over the past year and 21.1% over the last five years. With a population of 68,723 and a median household income of $72,250, the price-to-income ratio stands at 4.1x, making West Des Moines affordable for the average household.
West Des Moines Housing Market Conditions
| Metric | West Des Moines | National Avg |
|---|---|---|
| Median Home Value | $295,000 | $400,000 |
| YoY Appreciation | +3.9% | +3.8% |
| 5-Year Appreciation | +21.1% | +22.4% |
| Price per Sq Ft | $88 | $222 |
| Days on Market | 56 days | 45 days |
| Months of Supply | 2.8 | 3.5 |
| List-to-Sale Ratio | 96.3% | 98.5% |
| Monthly Homes Sold | 66 | — |
| Foreclosure Rate | 0.32% | 0.3% |
Home Value Trends in West Des Moines
A homeowner who purchased at the median price of $243,600 five years ago in West Des Moines would have gained approximately $51,400 in equity, representing a 21.1% return on investment. Over the past year alone, the typical homeowner gained $11,073 in home equity.
Affordability in West Des Moines, IA
With a median household income of $72,250 and a median home price of $295,000, the price-to-income ratio in West Des Moines is 4.1x. A ratio below 3x is generally considered affordable, while above 5x indicates significant affordability challenges. The average monthly rent of $2,046 compared to estimated monthly ownership costs of $1,787 gives a rent-vs-buy ratio of 0.87. In West Des Moines, buying is currently competitive with renting when factoring in equity accumulation.
Property Taxes in West Des Moines
The effective property tax rate in Iowa is 1.57%. On a home valued at $295,000, the estimated annual property tax bill is $4,632, or approximately $386/month. Property taxes are an important factor in the total cost of homeownership and can significantly impact affordability. The cost of living index in West Des Moines is 93.5 (100 = national average), indicating living costs are below the national average.
Calculate Your Mortgage Payment in West Des Moines
Use our free calculator to estimate monthly payments for a $295,000 home
Open Mortgage CalculatorFrequently Asked Questions
What is the median home value in West Des Moines, IA?
The median home value in West Des Moines, Iowa is $295,000 as of March 2026. Home values have changed +3.9% over the past year, with a 5-year appreciation of 21.1%.
Is West Des Moines a buyer's or seller's market?
West Des Moines is currently a seller's market with 2.8 months of housing supply. Homes spend an average of 56 days on market, and the list-to-sale price ratio is 96.3%. Low inventory gives sellers an advantage.
Are home values going up in West Des Moines?
Yes, home values in West Des Moines have increased by 3.9% over the past year. The 5-year appreciation rate is 21.1%, meaning a home worth $243,600 five years ago is now worth $295,000.
Is it better to rent or buy in West Des Moines?
The average monthly rent in West Des Moines is $2,046, while estimated monthly homeownership costs are approximately $1,787. The price-to-rent ratio is 12. Based on current conditions, buying may be more cost-effective than renting in this market.
Home Values in Other Iowa Cities
Related Resources
Disclaimer: Home value data for West Des Moines, Iowa is based on publicly available market data and estimates. Actual home values may vary based on property condition, location within the city, and current market conditions. Data is updated regularly but may not reflect the most recent transactions. Last updated: March 2026.