Des Moines and the surrounding metropolitan area are home to a growing population of nearly 500,000. The area’s strong growth can be attributed to a number of factors including the quality of life and the expansion of major companies. Central Iowa has attracted and retained major businesses such as Principal Financial Group, EMC Insurance Company, Meredith Corporation, Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc., Nationwide - Allied Insurance, and Aviva USA. The industries in the area include financial services, insurance, government, agriculture, manufacturing, trade and service.

Des Moines' downtown is in the midst of a boom with recent additions such as Wells Fargo Arena, the Polk County Convention Complex, a new public library, the Science Center of Iowa, and the soon to be completed Principal Riverwalk. These projects complement more established attractions such as the Civic Center, Principal Park, Downtown Farmers’ Market, and the historical Temple for Performing Arts.

Greater Des Moines offers a variety of entertainment options including: the Iowa Cubs AAA baseball team, the Iowa Stars hockey team, Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino, the Iowa State Fair and an active restaurant and nightclub scene.

Among Des Moines educational institutions are Drake University, Des Moines University, Des Moines Area Community College, and AIB College of Business.

The city is easily accessible from 2 major highways (Interstate 80 and Interstate 35) and Des Moines International Airport (DSM), which is 10 minutes away from the heart of the city.

Area Resources:

• City of Des Moines
• City of West Des Moines
• Downtown Community Alliance
• Greater Des Moines Partnership
• Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau