West Des Moines, IA Rent To Own Homes

Rent-to-Own Homes in West Des Moines, IA: What You Ned to Know

West Des Moines is the sixth-largest city in Iowa, with a population of approximately 68,000 people. Most of the West Des Moines is located in Polk County, with other parts of the city in Dallas, Warren, and Madison counties. The city is commonly included in various “Best Places to Live” lists due to the low cost of living. 

Are There Job Opportunities in West Des Moines, IA?

West Des Moines has a great job market and relatively low unemployment compared to the rest of the country. The median household income is well above the state and national average at just around $71,000 per year. The city's largest employer is Wells Fargo Home Mortgage and Credit Service. Other large employers include ADP, Guide One Insurance, and the Iowa Foundation for Medical Care. 

Weather and Climate

You’ll get a wide range of weather in West Des Moines. Summers are hot and humid. They’re so humid that 14% of the summer is listed as being “miserable.” July is the warmest month of the year, where the temperature averaged 86ºF. Winters are cold with a lot of snow. The best time of year weather-wise is at the end of August when the humidity is not as high, but temperatures have not yet cooled down.  

What are the Best Places to Shop in West Des Moines, IA?

If you love to shop, you’re in luck. West Des Moines has one of the largest shopping malls in the area. The West Valley mall has space for 115 stores and brings in 40,000 shoppers every day. It opened in 1975 and quickly grew to the huge mega-mall it is today. It has stores like JC Penny, Banana Republic, Sephora, Bath and Body Works, and Victoria’s Secret. It is also home to the Des Moines Children’s Museum and the Iowa Ballet Academy. The mall hosts various events throughout the year which benefit local charities. 

Local History

An important part of West Des Moines’ history centers around their involvement with the underground railroad led by James Cunningham Jordan. Jordan has been referred to as the “Chief Conductor” of the Underground Railroad for Polk County. His house was a stop for slaves who were heading toward freedom. Famous abolitionist John Brown is known to have stayed at the house multiple times, once with a group of 12 slaves who were being led to freedom. The Jordan House is now a museum that offers guided tours every Friday and Sunday.