Everything You Need to Know Before Relocating To Greater Des Moines
Relocating to a new place often comes with plenty of questions: What do people do for fun? How do I get connected? Will it feel like home?
We asked several people (including some of our DSM MVPs) who relocated to Greater Des Moines (DSM) what surprised them the most about life here. Their answers highlight just a few things newcomers should know before officially making the move.
Heads up: don’t blame us when you decide it’s time to find out what DSM is all about.
How Easy DSM Is
Many people relocate to DSM for family or careers but stay because life is simply easier.
Ray and Pat Carroll bought a home in DSM to be closer to their daughter and her family and quickly discovered how convenient the region is. “We would have followed our daughter wherever she went, but there are so many things that make DSM easy and enjoyable, especially transportation. Since we still have our home in Florida, having a direct flight from Fort Meyers to DSM makes life so much easier.”
Steve Moyna also appreciates how easy it is to access activities across the region. “Pricing, distance, parking, diversity of events are all reasons to plant roots in DSM.”
There's More to DSM Than Corn
For some newcomers, the biggest surprise about DSM is how different it feels from the stereotypes people often associate with Iowa.
Originally from Kansas, Jake Unruh shared, “I wish other people knew that there are vibrant community pockets all throughout the region. I feel like I’ve had several avenues to get connected and the longer I’m here, the more I see how communities overlap.”
Angela Jiskoot appreciates the many cultural events and festivals in the region. “We have one of the largest farmers’ markets in the country and one of the best state fairs. I frequently refer to DSM as a “mini Chicago” as it offers many of the same things but with lower cost of living, less traffic and the same great amenities and quality of life options.”
How Nice Everyone Is
Most people have heard of “Midwest nice,” but according to Mark Stiles, “Iowa Nice” is something entirely different. “One of my wife’s first adventures was Fareway taking the groceries to the car. She tried to tip and they wouldn’t let her.”
From Thailand to DSM, Sue Hudson wishes people knew how friendly and open the community is. “From neighbors to workplaces, people are welcoming and there are real opportunities here where everyone can grow, succeed and feel a sense of belonging.”
People Love It, So They Stay
That friendliness often turns into something deeper: people tend to stay. When Holly Adams moved to DSM, she was shocked to learn how many elderly residents have lived in the region their whole life. “They started their lives here when they were young and stayed because it’s so awesome!”
Randi Willard said, “Des Moines will suck you in and that’s a good thing. My plan was to only be here for a few years. I had no idea I’d grow to love it so much.”
Great Job Opportunities and Networking
Beyond quality of life, many transplants also discover unexpected career opportunities.
John Kallen, who relocated from the East Coast, quickly noticed how easy it is to connect with business and community leaders.
When Perlla Deluca first moved to DSM, she said she wished she had known sooner about the programs and support the Greater Des Moines Partnership offers to individuals, families, businesses and organizations.
For many newcomers, the connections they make turn into lasting careers and long-term roots in the region.
Ready to Make Your Move?
Request a free relocation guide to learn more about the region or reach out through our MVP network to ask your own questions.