Des Moines, IA metro area Housing Market
Cold MarketComprehensive 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: January 2026
Median Sale Price
$295K
↑ 0.9% YoY
Days on Market
68 days
↑ 17.2% YoY
Active Inventory
3,044
↑ 4.5% YoY
Homes Sold
559
↓ 9.8% YoY
Cold Market
Inventory is high and homes are sitting longer — a buyer's market.
Des Moines, IA metro area Market Summary
The Des Moines, IA metro area housing market is cooling down. As of January 2026, the median home sale price is $295K, up 0.9% year-over-year. Homes are spending a median of 68 days on the market, 17.2% longer than a year ago.
There are 3,044 homes for sale — 4.5% more than last year. With 5.4 months of supply, this is a balanced market. 845 new listings were added during this period, down 11.9% year-over-year.
Homes are selling for 97.7% of their list price on average, suggesting room for negotiation. 15.9% of homes sell above their asking price. 27.3% of listings have had a price drop.
Market Opportunity Score
Based on current market conditions
78
Contributing Factors
How This Market Compares
vs. National Median
vs. Iowa Median
Investor Takeaway
The cooling market may present buying opportunities with less competition and more negotiating leverage. High inventory relative to sales pace means buyers have options and sellers may be flexible on price. A significant share of sellers are cutting prices, which can signal motivated sellers and potential deals. Prices are 30% below the national median, which could indicate stronger cash flow potential.
Des Moines, IA metro area Market Trends
Median Sale Price
Median Days on Market
Active Inventory
Homes Sold
Price per Square Foot
Sale-to-List Ratio
New Listings
Listings with Price Drops
Detailed Market Metrics
Median List Price
$316K
Price per Sq Ft
$209
Sale-to-List Ratio
97.7%
Months of Supply
5.4
Sold Above List
15.9%
Price Drops
27.3%
New Listings
845
↓ 11.9% YoY
Pending Sales
836
Off Market in 2 Weeks
21.5%
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Try It FreeHousing market data provided by Redfin, a national real estate brokerage. Not financial advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making investment decisions.