2026 Cost of Living in Des Moines, Iowa: Comprehensive Guide

By Sarah Ingles, REALTOR® SRES® CPCU® | Smart Move Des Moines Cost of Living in Des Moines, Iowa (2026) The cost of living Des Moines Iowa residents face in 2026 is lower than most major U.S. cities. Whether you’re a buyer relocating to the Des Moines area, a homeowner deciding whether now is the right … Read more

First Keys to Final Chapters: Your Des Moines Move

By Sarah Ingles, REALTOR® SRES® CPCU® | Smart Move Des Moines Des Moines real estate guide — Smart Move Des Moines helps families navigate every chapter of homeownership — from first-time buyers in Ankeny to seniors downsizing in West Des Moines. As a REALTOR® and Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES®) with over 10 years of … Read more

Best Des Moines Neighborhoods for Families in 2026

Feb 14, 2026 By Sarah Ingles, REALTOR® SRES® CPCU® | Smart Move Des Moines The best Des Moines neighborhoods families choose offer great schools and community. Choosing the right neighborhood for your family in Des Moines comes down to three things: schools, safety, and how your daily life actually works — drop-offs, commute, groceries, weekends. … Read more

Why Des Moines Is the Smart Move for 2026: Growth, Opportunity, Lifestyle

By Sarah Ingles, REALTOR® SRES® CPCU® | Smart Move Des Moines Des Moines is one of the most undervalued mid-size metros in the country — and 2026 is shaping up to be a breakout year. Major business expansions, rising job opportunities, housing that’s still 30–50% more affordable than comparable Midwest cities, and a lifestyle that … Read more