The word "variety" accurately describes Des Moines' housing stock. From downtown lofts to new subdivision developments to traditional neighborhoods, a wide spectrum of housing options are available.

An added bonus is the affordability of housing in Des Moines. Greater Des Moines was the most affordable housing market in the nation in fourth quarter 2000, with a median home sales price of $107,000. Nearly 90 percent of the homes on the market were affordable by a family making the local median income of $60,000.