Welcome to the Des Moines Metro

Whether you're getting orders to Iowa, taking a Guard or Reserve position, transitioning out of the military, or just moving home, the Des Moines metro is a great place for military families: reasonable home prices, strong suburbs, short commutes and a big veteran community. I'm Phil Ryder, an Army veteran and Military Relocation Professional (MRP) REALTOR based in Waukee, and this is the guide I'd give a friend.

Key Military Locations Around Des Moines

  • Camp Dodge (Johnston): home of the Iowa National Guard's Joint Forces Headquarters. Johnston, Ankeny, Urbandale and Grimes all offer easy commutes. See Johnston homes for sale.
  • Des Moines Air National Guard Base: the 132d Wing is based at the Des Moines International Airport on the south side, an easy drive from West Des Moines and Des Moines neighborhoods.
  • VA Central Iowa Health Care System: the VA medical center is in Des Moines, with services across the metro.

Which Suburb Fits Your Family?

  • Waukee: one of the fastest-growing suburbs on the west side, with lots of newer construction.
  • West Des Moines: shopping, dining and established neighborhoods from Valley Junction to Jordan Creek.
  • Ankeny: a large north-metro suburb with easy I-35 access and plenty of parks and trails.
  • Johnston: close to Camp Dodge and Saylorville Lake.
  • Urbandale, Clive and Grimes: convenient western suburbs with a mix of established and new homes.
  • Des Moines: historic neighborhoods, downtown living and some of the metro's best values.

Not sure where to start? Read my comparison: Ankeny vs. Johnston.

Buying From Out of State

  1. Start with a plan call. We'll go over your report date, budget and commute.
  2. Get pre-approved with a lender experienced in VA loans and Iowa Finance Authority programs.
  3. Tour by video. I can walk homes live on FaceTime or video call so you can shortlist before you arrive.
  4. Use your benefits. VA loans offer $0 down for eligible buyers and no monthly PMI, and Iowa adds a $5,000 Military Homeownership Assistance grant and property tax benefits. See my Iowa military home buyer benefits guide and VA loan guide.
  5. Close on your timeline. Iowa closings involve an abstract of title and the seller's 558A disclosure; I'll handle the details and keep you updated wherever you're stationed.

Selling Before Your Next PCS?

If you're leaving the Des Moines area, I'll help you sell on your schedule. Start with a free home value estimate.

Let's Talk

Get my free Iowa VA & Military Home Buyer's Guide, browse homes for sale, or call or text 515-657-1622.

Philip Ryder, REALTOR®, Real Brokerage, LLC · Military Relocation Professional · Licensed to sell in Iowa – License #72283000. Eligibility rules apply to VA and Iowa programs.

Philip Ryder November 08, 2026

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