$345,469Average Value$137Average Price per Sq Ft0Homes For Sale
One of the oldest neighborhoods in Des Moines
Founded on the outskirts of Des Moines in 1850, Sherman Hill has the distinction of being one of the area’s oldest neighborhoods. Named for the city’s first postmaster, Sherman Hill’s eye-catching architecture and panoramic view of downtown quickly established it as one of the more stylish places to live in the region, attracting politicians, artists and captains of industry. Over 170 years later, locals still take pride in living on the Hill. “We’re the only urban neighborhood in Des Moines because of our proximity to downtown,” says Robert McCammon, a 20-year resident and president of the Sherman Hill Association. “There’s been a lot of effort to make it the most desirable area in the city.” Historic architecture, an active local community and its location in downtown’s backyard still draw potential homeowners today.
The Sherman Hill neighborhood is officially recognized as a Historic District.
Residents of Sherman Hill love their quaint, historic neighborhood just minutes from downtown.
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Historic 19th century Victorian houses
Despite sharing a border with downtown, the area retains a distinctly suburban look, with brightly colored homes lining a long checkerboard of streets and sidewalks. Alleys run behind most homes, providing short driveways, backyard storage and the occasional tiny plot of land large enough for a garden or bench swing. Details and accents vary, but homes tend toward styles popularized in the mid-to-late 19th century. “We have some later styles like American Foursquare or Craftsman, but overall, it’s primarily Victorian,” McCammon says. Queen Anne and Second Empire homes litter the landscape alongside more traditional Victorians, ensuring that an aesthetic unifies them stylistically while no two homes look the same. Though wide pockets of the neighborhood have been maintained and restored, many homes still need renovation and a new coat of paint. Fortunately, the city provides incentives to assist homeowners, including tax breaks. “At one point to spur renovations, the city was literally selling homes for $1,” McCammon says. Those buyers labored at extensive renovations, and the results speak for themselves. “These houses could have been 50 tons of debris in the landfill. But thanks to a bit of work, these 130-year-old houses could be around for another 130 years. That’s pretty special.” Prices begin at the high $40,000s for some of the most time-worn buildings needing special attention. Renovated historic homes hover around the mid-$300,000s, while enormous estates with original details and accents can be found anywhere between the low $500,000s and mid-$800,000s.
Grand and ornate Victorian homes are what Sherman Hill is known for.
Beautiful historic homes tucked into mature shady trees give Sherman Hill its charm.
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A time capsule at the Wallace House
Less than a mile north, Good Park is an 11-acre public facility with basketball and tennis courts, a spray park, a gazebo, lots of mature trees and gentle hills popular for sledding in the winter. Residents take their boats to Gray’s Lake Park nearby for fishing, catching some wake or just enjoying peace and quiet out on the water. Built in 1883, the Wallace House was the home of Henry Wallace, editor of the Iowa Homestead newspaper. Restored in 1988, the building is now a museum and time capsule featuring many pieces of period furniture and antiques. In addition to being open for tours and events, the Italianate Victorian-style estate is home to the Wallace Center of Iowa, an organization dedicated to eliminating food insecurity in Iowa and reconnecting the population with the origins of their food.
A well-maintained basketball court encourages games between neighbors.
Nearby Gray's Lake offers boat rentals for Sherman Hill residents to get out on the water.
Wallace House is a historical home and landmark in the center of Sherman Hill.
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Local brews at Big Grove
In addition to dozens of home-brewed IPAs, sour beers and hard seltzers, Big Grove Brewery has a full menu of upscale tavern cuisine, including pork belly lettuce wraps, white cheddar cheesesteak and BBQ fried chicken mac & cheese. Residents visit MLK River Park 2 miles southwest in downtown Des Moines for a bit of variety. Once the site of the historic Old Tavern Brewery, the four-story brick structure is the home to an eclectic selection of restaurants and businesses, including TGR Fitness, Fred’s Bike Shop and Blaze Pizza. The southwestern side of the neighborhood is home to boutique grocery store Gateway Market, while the Uptown Center in Drake features a Hy-Vee Drugstore, Friedrich’s Coffee and All Pho You.
The patio of Big Grove Brewery fills up most nights and hosts weekly events.
Sherman Hill residents love the convenience of having Gateway Market in their neighborhood.
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Music and comedy at Hoyt Sherman Place
Located in a mansion that once belonged to neighborhood founder Hoyt Sherman, Hoyt Sherman Place is an elaborate 1,200-seat theatre, lavishly decorated to call one’s mind back to an older, more elegant time in entertainment history. The space has hosted musicians, comedians and other luminaries since 1923, including acts as varied as John Philips Sousa, Fred Rogers, Patton Oswalt and the Glenn Miller Orchestra. “It might be the best place to see a show in the whole city,” McCammon says.
Hoyt Sherman Place's theater in Sherman Hill hosts internationally know acts and artists.
Hoyt Sherman Place hosts several concerts and events every week.
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Spanish immersion at St. Anthony's
Iowa’s open enrollment program allows parents to choose the right school for their kids, regardless of their district. Students can begin their education at Edmunds Elementary School and Callanan Middle School, both of which have a C-minus on Niche. From there, they can attend Roosevelt High School, which has a B and specializes in the fine arts, offering courses in theatre, painting and more. Those interested in a private education can consider St. Anthony Catholic School, which serves pre-kindergarten through eighth grade and offers a Spanish language immersion program.
Edmunds Elementary School sits on the north side of the neighborhood
Callanan Middle School serves the intermediate students of Sherman Hill.
The Roosevelt High School main entrance emanates with the history that flows through its halls.
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Living in Des Moines' backyard
The neighborhood hugs the western border of downtown Des Moines, making for straightforward commutes into the heart of the city or to Iowa Methodist Medical Center. Nearby Interstate 235 provides simple access to locations out of state, while the Des Moines International Airport is found 4 miles south. Sidewalks and bike trails provide a pedestrian-friendly environment that many locals are quick to take advantage of. “Biking is huge,” McCammon adds. “All along the south border of the neighborhood, into the park, there are dedicated bike lanes.” Public transportation is offered through Des Moines Area Region Transit Authority (DART), which provides bus routes all over the city.
Sherman Hill's proximity to Downtown Des Moines makes it convenient and accessible.
Sherman Hill residents take pride in their neighborhood and their city.
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Sherman Hill, where history and modernity meet.
Important to know
Sherman Hill is listed as an eight out of 10 on the CAP Crime Index, doubling the national average of four. The highest instances of crime were centered around non-violent crimes. Authorities are confident that 2024 will show a decrease as repeat offenders are taken off the streets and removed from nearby areas.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Eric Fitzgerald,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Parks in this Area
Cowles Commons
Trails
Events
Good Park
Chamberlain Park
Picnic Area
Playground
Evelyn Davis Park
Basketball
Grills
Picnic Area
Western Gateway Park
Picnic Area
Trails
Events
Drake Park
Basketball
Grills
Picnic Area
Transit
Airport
Des Moines International
11 min drive
Bus
Crocker St & 19th St, Dsm
Bus
Center St & 17th St (Far-Side), Dsm
Bus
15th St & Center St (Far-Side), Dsm
Bus
Ingersoll Ave & 18th St, Dsm
Bus
15th St & Woodland Ave, Dsm
Bus
19th St & Crocker St, Dsm
Bus
15th St & Pleasant St, Dsm
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Sherman Hill
US
Homicide
5
4
Sexual Assault
7
4
Assault with Weapon
6
4
Robbery
7
4
Burglary
8
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
8
4
Larceny
9
4
Crime Score
8
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Sherman Hill Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Sherman Hill, Des Moines sell after 123 days on the market compared to the national average of 70 days. The median sale price for homes in Sherman Hill, Des Moines over the last 12 months is $479,000, up 146% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Step into history with this stunning 1883-built home in the heart of the Sherman Hill Historic District. Overflowing with original charm, this home features a grand entrance, exquisite woodwork, and a breathtaking staircase that embodies the craftsmanship of a true pre-1900 mansion. From intricate trim and stately doors to period-accurate registers and doorknobs, every detail tells a
Welcome to Historic Sherman Hill! This 4 bedroom - grand two-story home combines timeless charm with thoughtful, high-quality updates. Set on a beautifully landscaped lot, it features a two-car garage with loft (2015), newer roof (est. 2015), furnace, A/C (approx. 5 yrs old), new electrical panel, and garage electrical upgrade (2024). Energy-efficient improvements include PEX plumbing, blown-in
Completely renovated from top to bottom, this three-story Sherman Hill home gives you the best of both worlds: historic charm + zero home projects. Beautiful hardwood floors can be found throughout, along with crisp white trim (some original), neutral paint colors, a wood burning fireplace, and period inspired doorknobs and light fixtures. The newly finished attic offers a fourth bedroom/flex
Introducing the newest addition to Des Moines a brand new apartment building situated just one mile away from the iconic Capital Square. Nestled in the peaceful and charming neighborhood of Sherman Hills, this apartment complex offers an escape from the bustling city, making it an ideal residence for those seeking a quieter urban living experience. High Street Lofts offer different floor plans
WELCOME HOME TO AN APARTMENT THAT FEELS LIKE A HOME AND A LOCATION WALKABLE TO DOZENS OF TOP NEIGHBORHOOD AMENITIESIndustrial touches LIKE barn doors and polished concrete floors highlight the urban feel of the lofts while large windows and high ceilings make our lofts feel spacious and bright. An enviable location on the vibrant Ingersoll Avenue corridor gives our residents the
Welcome to The Winford Apartments in Des Moines, IA! Our community offers all utilities and parking included in rent! Located in a prime location, The Winford Apartments provide easy access to nearby shopping, dining, and entertainment options. With a focus on simplicity and convenience, our apartments are perfect for those looking for a hassle-free living experience. Contact us today to schedule
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Eric Fitzgerald,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Average Home Value
Source: Public Records
Property Mix - Square Feet
This Neighborhood Has More Renters
Demographics
Total Population
1,985
Median Age
35
Population Density
13 ppl/acre
Population under 18
19%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
10%
Below the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$46,500
Significantly below the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$70,860
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
95.8%
College Graduates
57.2%
Above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
16.7%
% Population in Labor Force
83.4%
Above the national average
65.1%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
36''
Average Winter Low Temperature
14°F
Average Summer High Temperature
85°F
Annual Snowfall
45''
Area Factors
Somewhat Bikeable
Bike Score®
48/ 100
Very Walkable
Walk Score®
80/ 100
Good Transit
Transit Score®
51/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
