Cash Flow Investing in Des Moines, IA
Data-driven cash flow analysis for Des Moines, IA — score breakdown, key investment metrics, and how it compares to other markets.
Last updated: May 2026
Score Breakdown
Key Metrics for Cash Flow
Cap Rate
6.6%
Good
Rent-to-Price
0.63%
Below 1% rule
Vacancy Rate
5.9%
Very tight
Property Tax
1.57%
Above average
Cash Flow Investment Thesis
Des Moines is an insurance and financial services hub with low unemployment and steady population growth. Under-the-radar market with reliable cash flow and lower competition from institutional buyers.
How Des Moines Compares
| Rank | City | Cash Flow Score | Cap Rate | Median Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #11 | Louisville, KY | 5.2 | 7.3% | $195,000 |
| #12 | Oklahoma City, OK | 5.0 | 7.7% | $175,000 |
| #13 | Little Rock, AR | 4.9 | 8.3% | $150,000 |
| #14 | Des Moines, IA | 4.9 | 6.6% | $200,000 |
| #15 | Minneapolis, MN | 4.8 | 6.1% | $295,000 |
| #16 | Kansas City, MO | 4.6 | 7.5% | $195,000 |
| #17 | Salt Lake City, UT | 4.6 | 5.4% | $420,000 |
Showing markets ranked near Des Moines for this strategy.
Quick Math: Estimated Annual Return
Based on median market data. Your actual returns will vary based on specific property, financing, and management costs. Always run your own analysis before investing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cash flow score for Des Moines, IA?
Des Moines, IA scores 4.9 out of 10 on our cash flow score, ranking #14 out of 52 markets we track. Weighted composite: rent-to-price ratio (30%), cap rate (30%), low vacancy (20%), low property taxes (20%). Scale 0–10.
Is Des Moines a good city for cash flow investing?
Des Moines, IA ranks #14 for cash flow investing — a solid mid-tier market with a score of 4.9/10. The median home price is $200,000 with a 6.6% average cap rate.
What is the average cap rate in Des Moines?
The average cap rate in Des Moines, IA is 6.6%. The median home price is $200,000 with a median monthly rent of $1,250, resulting in a rent-to-price ratio of 0.63%.
What are the property taxes in Des Moines?
The effective property tax rate in Des Moines, IA is 1.57%. On a $200,000 property, that translates to approximately $3,140 per year in property taxes.
How does Des Moines compare to other cash flow markets?
Among our 52 tracked markets, Des Moines, IA ranks #14 for cash flow investing. It performs above average for this strategy.
Does Des Moines meet the 1% rule?
Des Moines, IA has a rent-to-price ratio of 0.63%, which falls significantly below the 1% rule. However, the 1% rule is a rough guideline — individual deals can still cash flow well in this market.
Run Your Own Numbers for Des Moines
Use our free calculators pre-filled with Des Moines, IA market data, or adjust the numbers for your specific deal.
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