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Why Live in Pleasant Hill

Pleasant Hill, Iowa, lives up to its name as a quiet, nature-oriented community just minutes east of downtown Des Moines. While it’s closely connected to the metro area through paved trails and major highways, Pleasant Hill maintains a distinct small-town feel with its own city government, local events and neighborhood parks. Highway 163 runs through the area, separating newer developments to the north from more established neighborhoods to the south, which are often zoned to different school districts. Housing options in Pleasant Hill are diverse. Longtime residents live alongside newer homeowners in a mix of 1960s to 1980s split-level homes and modern single-family houses and townhomes. Subdivisions like Copper Creek feature New Traditional homes with golf course or lake views, reflecting the city’s steady growth over the past few decades. Townhomes provide more affordable options, while the overall median sale price sits higher than Des Moines proper. Community life centers on local parks, trails and events, including farmers markets, concerts and seasonal festivals around Copper Creek Lake. With several parks, recreational leagues, golf, boating and trail connections, Pleasant Hill offers an active lifestyle. Although car-dependent, Pleasant Hill’s location near Highway 163, U.S. Route 65 and Interstate 80 makes commuting easy. Residents enjoy suburban comfort with strong ties to Des Moines, while still feeling rooted in a community of their own.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to rent a home in Pleasant Hill, IA?
The median rent for a home in Pleasant Hill, IA is $1,872 per month, though prices vary by neighborhood, size, and property type. As of August 2026, condos tend to be the most affordable option while single-family homes are currently more expensive.
How much do you need to make to afford rent in Pleasant Hill, IA?
To comfortably afford the median rent in Pleasant Hill, IA, a household needs to earn roughly $74,880 per year. This is based on the common guideline that households should spend no more than 30% of gross income on housing. Most landlords require monthly household income of at least 3x the monthly rent, and with a median rent of $1,872 per month in Pleasant Hill, IA, renters typically need to show $5,616 per month in gross income to qualify. Actual affordability will vary depending on household debts, other living expenses, and overall budget.
Is it more affordable to rent or buy in Pleasant Hill, IA?
In Pleasant Hill, IA, the price-to-rent ratio is 14.0, which generally favors renting. This ratio divides the median home price by the annual median rent: below 15 typically favors buying, 15 to 20 is balanced, and above 20 typically favors renting. Your finances, how long you plan to stay, and costs like mortgage rates, taxes, and maintenance all factor into the decision.
What neighborhoods in Pleasant Hill, IA are best for renting a home?
The best neighborhood for renting in Pleasant Hill, IA depends on your priorities: commute, walkability, budget, and lifestyle all play a role. Popular areas for renting a home include East Village, Downtown Des Moines, Sherman Hill and Drake, each with its own character and price range.

Rental Home Trends

Median Rent
$1,872
Median Single Family Home Rent
$1,975
Median Condo Rent
$1,638
How to Rent a Home