Statistic West Des Moines Iowa National
Population 66,724 3,155,070 328,239,523
Population density (sq mi) 1,413 57 91
Median age 35.7 38.0 37.7
Male/Female ratio 1.0:1 1.0:1 1.0:1
Married (15yrs & older) 56% 60% 55%
Families w/ Kids under 18 51% 44% 43%
Speak English 85% 92% 79%
Speak Spanish 4% 4% 13%

Overview of West Des Moines Demographics

Understanding the demographics of West Des Moines is essential for gaining insights into the composition, dynamics and needs of any city, town or village. This knowledge empowers planners, developers and policymakers to strategize effectively, promoting prosperity, equity and well-being for all residents. The West Des Moines population is 66,724, with a population density of 1,413 people per square mile, diverging from the national average of 91. The median age is 35.7, and 56% of individuals aged 15 or older are married, while 51% have children under 18. As far as income equality in West Des Moines, 11% of households have a median income below $25,000, whereas 28% report an income exceeding $150,000, indicating a varied economic landscape within the area.

West Des Moines Racial Demographics & Ethnicity

Understanding the West Des Moines racial demographics and ethnic composition is paramount for addressing systemic inequities, advancing social justice and inclusion and fortifying communities. In West Des Moines, the racial breakdown indicates 84.9% White, 4% Black or African American, 6.6% Asian, 0.1% American Indian and 0.1% Native Hawaiian, with 6% of the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino. Notably, 85.4% of households reported speaking English only, while 4.3% reported speaking Spanish only. Additionally, 11.1% of residents were categorized as foreign-born.

West Des Moines Population Density

Areas like West Des Moines that have a higher than average population density tend to support environmental sustainability by reducing per capita energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions and land use. Compact urban development encourages energy-efficient buildings, walking, cycling and the use of public transit, promoting sustainable lifestyles and reducing environmental impact. Densely populated areas also tend to have more vibrant social and cultural scenes, with a diverse population contributing to a wide array of cultural events, festivals and community activities. This diversity fosters creativity, innovation and cross-cultural exchange, enriching the social fabric of the community. The West Des Moines population density is higher than average and comes in at 1,413 people per square mile (compared to the nationwide average of 91), putting it in a position to take advantage of all the benefits of a densely populated area.

Is West Des Moines Family Friendly?

A city that prioritizes the well-being and necessities of families, such as West Des Moines, fosters an environment where children prosper, parents receive robust support and families collectively relish a high standard of living. Family-friendly cities are renowned for nurturing tight-knit communities, where neighbors actively assist and look out for one another. Furthermore, these locales often offer exceptional educational opportunities, encompassing top-notch schools, well-stocked libraries, and a plethora of extracurricular activities. Quality education is paramount for the comprehensive development and future success of children. By placing a premium on the welfare of its populace, such cities emerge as vibrant and resilient communities where families can genuinely flourish. In West Des Moines, 51% of families have children under 18, and 56% of residents aged 15 and above are married. These demographic attributes position this area to harness the advantages of being a family-friendly locale.

Why are Demographics Important?

Education Allocation: West Des Moines demographics can play a pivotal role in guiding education planning, offering insights into student demographics, school enrollment patterns, and educational requirements. This data aids schools and policymakers in resource allocation and the development of effective educational programs. It serves as a critical tool for identifying disparities in educational access and outcomes among diverse demographic groups, such as racial and ethnic minorities, socio-economic status, and students with disabilities. Through the disaggregation of data by demographic factors, education planners can pinpoint areas of inequity and implement targeted interventions to enhance access, support, and outcomes for marginalized students. Ultimately, West Des Moines demographic data is indispensable in education for advancing equity, fostering student achievement, and cultivating inclusive learning environments tailored to the needs of all students.

Social Cohesion: The analysis and understanding of demographics are essential for promoting social cohesion and fostering appreciation among diverse communities. By embracing and acknowledging differences in West Des Moines demographics, societies can promote inclusivity, diversity and social harmony while addressing social inequalities and advocating for equal opportunities. Racial demographics can reflect the diversity within a population and are instrumental in fostering inclusive and welcoming communities. Embracing ethnic diversity strengthens social connections, promotes cultural understanding and enriches society by celebrating the contributions of individuals from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds.

Understanding Populations: By delving into and analyzing the West Des Moines demographic stats, we can uncover insightful details regarding the composition and attributes of populations, spanning age, gender, race, ethnicity, income, education and other socio-economic indicators. This comprehension is vital for addressing the diverse needs, preferences and hurdles faced by various demographic groups within communities. Demographics wield significant influence in understanding populations, shaping decision-making processes and championing equity, inclusion, and the overall welfare of all individuals and communities. The West Des Moines population and demographic data serves as a cornerstone for tackling social, economic and environmental challenges, while simultaneously nurturing the well-being and resilience of societies.

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Demographics Quick Facts

  • The population density in West Des Moines is 2378% higher than Iowa
  • The median age in West Des Moines is 6% lower than Iowa
  • In West Des Moines 84.86% of the population is White
  • In West Des Moines 3.97% of the population is Black
  • In West Des Moines 6.58% of the population is Asian

Compare West Des Moines, IA Demographics

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      West Des Moines racial demographics

      Race West Des Moines Iowa National
      White 84.86% 90.90% 73.35%
      Black 3.97% 3.32% 12.63%
      Asian 6.58% 2.14% 5.22%
      American Indian 0.12% 0.32% 0.82%
      Native Hawaiian 0.05% 0.08% 0.18%
      Mixed race 3.59% 1.97% 3.06%
      Other race 0.83% 1.27% 4.75%
      In West Des Moines, 6.0% of people are of Hispanic or Latino origin.
      Please note: Hispanics may be of any race, so also are included in any/all of the applicable race categories above.

      Household income distribution

      Place of birth by citizenship

      West Des Moines age breakdown

      Marital status

      Age of children in married couples

      Source: The West Des Moines, IA demographics data displayed above is derived from the United States Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS).