Des Moines, IA Home Security Guide

Detailed crime statistics, neighborhood safety scores, and local security companies for Des Moines. Population: 214,133 residents.

Total Crime Rate

45 per 1,000

Violent Crime

8 per 1,000

Property Crime

37 per 1,000

Higher Than Average Crime

Des Moines has a crime rate 58% higher than the Iowa state average. A home security system is strongly recommended.

44

Moderate

Safety Score

Protect Your Des Moines Home

Given the area's crime rates, a monitored security system is highly recommended

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Des Moines Crime Statistics (2024)

Violent Crime

8.00 per 1,000
Total Incidents 1,714
Murder 18
Rape 142
Robbery 328
Aggravated Assault 1226

Property Crime

37.00 per 1,000
Total Incidents 7,920
Burglary 1,285
Theft 5,064
Vehicle Theft 1,571

Source: FBI Uniform Crime Report. Crime rates are expressed per 1,000 residents.

Your Chance of Being a Victim in Des Moines

any crime

1 in 22

violent crime

1 in 125

property crime

1 in 27

motor vehicle_theft

1 in 136

Des Moines Neighborhoods

Safest Neighborhoods

Beaverdale

Safety: 72/100

South of Grand

Safety: 70/100

Waterbury

Safety: 66/100

Popular Neighborhoods

East Village

Safety: 52/100

Trendy downtown neighborhood with restaurants and nightlife. Petty theft and vehicle break-ins are the main concerns.

Drake

Safety: 38/100

Sherman Hill

Safety: 45/100

Higher Risk Areas

River Bend

Safety: 18/100

King Irving

Safety: 22/100

Security Companies Serving Des Moines

No local security companies found near Des Moines. These national providers serve the area:

Security Companies Serving Des Moines

ADT Security

BBB: A

Vivint Smart Home

BBB: B+

SimpliSafe

BBB: A+

Most Common Crimes in Des Moines

1 Theft and larceny (5,064 reported in 2024)
2 Motor vehicle theft (1,571 reported in 2024)
3 Residential burglary (1,285 reported in 2024)
4 Aggravated assault (1,226 reported in 2024)
5 Package theft and porch piracy

Security Recommendations for Des Moines

Essential

Video doorbell
Motion-sensor exterior lights
Deadbolt locks on all doors
Security system with monitoring

Recommended

Security cameras (front, back, driveway)
Smart locks
Window sensors
Package lockbox

Nice to Have

Smart garage door opener
Interior cameras
Glass break sensors
GPS tracker for vehicles

Des Moines Area Codes & Zip Codes

Area Codes

515

Zip Codes

503015030950310503115031250313503145031550316503175032050321

Frequently Asked Questions About Des Moines Home Security

Is Des Moines safe?

Des Moines has a safety score of 44 out of 100. Crime is above the Iowa average but moderate nationally. Beaverdale (72) and South of Grand (70) are among the safest neighborhoods.

What is the crime rate in Des Moines?

Des Moines has an overall crime rate of 45.0 per 1,000 residents. Violent crime is 8.0 per 1,000 and property crime is 37.0 per 1,000.

What are the safest neighborhoods in Des Moines?

Beaverdale (score 72), South of Grand (score 70), and Waterbury (score 66) are the safest areas in Des Moines.

What are the most common crimes in Des Moines?

Theft and larceny is the most common crime with over 5,000 cases. Motor vehicle theft and burglary are also significant concerns.

What home security company should I use in Des Moines?

ADT has a local office in Des Moines. Vivint and SimpliSafe also serve the area. A monitored system with cameras is recommended.

Do I need an alarm permit in Des Moines?

Yes. The City of Des Moines requires alarm system permits. False alarm fines apply. Contact the Des Moines Police Department for current requirements.

Don't Wait Until It's Too Late

Des Moines's crime rates make home security a smart investment. Compare your options.

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