Why Live in Watrous Heights
Watrous Heights in Des Moines is a vibrant neighborhood that offers a blend of urban and suburban living. Located just 6 miles from downtown, it provides convenient access to shopping, dining, and parks. The neighborhood features midcentury bungalow and ranch-style homes, with some older properties scattered throughout. Most homes have garages and sit on lots typically one-eighth acre or less, suitable for small gardens. The area is characterized by colorful murals and sidewalks, though some streets may lack tree cover. Residents experience some noise from Des Moines International Airport, which is only 2 miles away.
For transportation, U.S. Route 69 runs parallel to the neighborhood, and Des Moines Area Regional Transit (DART) bus stops are available along SW 9th Street. Essential services like Iowa Methodist Medical Center and Hy-Vee grocery store are nearby. The Downtown Farmers Market, 3 miles away, operates from May to October, offering fresh produce and local goods. Dining options include Sam's Fine Foods & Egg Rolls, Jim's Coney Island, and Francie's Bar & Grill, with Skip's high-end restaurant just 2 miles away for special occasions. Fleur Cinema & Cafe provides entertainment with art and independent films, along with a cafe serving beer and snacks.
Outdoor activities are plentiful with Sayers Park, 2 miles west, featuring an accessible playground, sports courts, and picnic areas. Grays Lake Park offers scenic trails, boat and bike rentals, and expansive lawns along the Raccoon River. The neighborhood is served by the Des Moines Independent Community School District, with schools like Park Avenue Elementary, Brody Middle School, and Lincoln High School.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Watrous Heights a good place to live?
Watrous Heights is a good place to live. Watrous Heights is considered car-dependent and somewhat bikeable with some transit options. Watrous Heights is a suburban neighborhood with a crime score of 4, on par with the average neighborhood in the U.S. Watrous Heights has 8 parks for recreational activities. It is somewhat dense in population with 7.7 people per acre and a median age of 37. The average household income is $77,763 which is below the national average. College graduates make up 16.2% of residents. A majority of residents in Watrous Heights are home owners, with 22.7% of residents renting and 77.3% of residents owning their home. A
local real estate agent serving Watrous Heights can help you decide if this neighborhood is the right one for you. Learn more on our
Watrous Heights neighborhood guide.
Is Watrous Heights, IA a safe neighborhood?
Watrous Heights, IA is a safe neighborhood and is on par with the average neighborhood in the United States. It received a crime score of 4 out of 10.
How much do you need to make to afford a house in Watrous Heights?
The median home price in Watrous Heights is $586,950. If you put a 20% down payment of $117,400 and had a 30-year fixed mortgage with an interest rate of 6.74%, your estimated principal and interest payment would be $3,040 a month plus property taxes, HOA fees, home insurance, PMI, and utilities. Using the 28% rule, you would need to make at least $130K a year to afford the median home price in Watrous Heights. The average household income in Watrous Heights is $78K.
What are the best public schools in Watrous Heights?
The best public schools that serve Watrous Heights are:
What are the best private schools in Watrous Heights?
The best private schools that serve Watrous Heights are:
What are the most popular zip codes in Watrous Heights, Des Moines, IA?
What are the most popular neighborhoods near Watrous Heights, Des Moines, IA?
Home Trends in Watrous Heights, IA
On average, homes in Watrous Heights, Des Moines sell after 69 days on the market compared to the national average of 70 days. The median sale price for homes in Watrous Heights, Des Moines over the last 12 months is $567,500, up 42% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Median Sale Price
$567,500
Median Single Family Sale Price
$745,000
Median 2 Bedroom Sale Price
$390,000
Average Price Per Sq Ft
$228
Number of Homes for Sale
5
Last 12 months Home Sales
14
Median List Price
$586,950
Median Change From 1st List Price
0%
Median Home Sale Price YoY Change
42%