Des Moines, IA metro area Housing Market

Cool Market

Comprehensive housing market data for the Des Moines, IA metro area metro area. Track home prices, inventory, days on market, and competition — updated monthly for real estate investors.

Data period: March 2026

Median Sale Price

$315K

5.3% YoY

Days on Market

89 days

43.5% YoY

Active Inventory

3,033

7.0% YoY

Homes Sold

936

3.5% YoY

Cool Market

Buyer activity is slowing, creating more negotiating room.

Des Moines, IA metro area Market Summary

The Des Moines, IA metro area housing market is cooling down. As of March 2026, the median home sale price is $315K, up 5.3% year-over-year. Homes are spending a median of 89 days on the market, 43.5% longer than a year ago.

There are 3,033 homes for sale — 7.0% more than last year. With 3.2 months of supply, this is a seller's market. 1,298 new listings were added during this period, up 12.9% year-over-year.

Homes are selling for 98.5% of their list price on average, suggesting room for negotiation. 19.8% of homes sell above their asking price. 29.3% of listings have had a price drop.

Market Opportunity Score

Based on current market conditions

73

Contributing Factors

Months of Supply 3.2
Days on Market 89
Price Drops 29.3%
Sale-to-List Ratio 98.5%
Market Temperature Cool

How This Market Compares

vs. National Median

Median Price (National: $437K) 27.9%
Days on Market (National: 55) 61.8%
Inventory (National: 1,314,690) 99.8%

vs. Iowa Median

Median Price (Iowa: $251K) 25.3%
Days on Market (Iowa: 72) 23.6%

Investor Takeaway

The cooling market may present buying opportunities with less competition and more negotiating leverage. A significant share of sellers are cutting prices, which can signal motivated sellers and potential deals. Prices are 28% below the national median, which could indicate stronger cash flow potential.

Des Moines, IA metro area Market Trends

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Detailed Market Metrics

Median List Price

$307K

Price per Sq Ft

$215

Sale-to-List Ratio

98.5%

Months of Supply

3.2

Sold Above List

19.8%

Price Drops

29.3%

New Listings

1,298

12.9% YoY

Pending Sales

1,254

Off Market in 2 Weeks

34.9%

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Housing market data provided by Redfin, a national real estate brokerage. Not financial advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making investment decisions.