Start Your US Nursing Career in Des Moines Iowa with Health Carousel International.

Why choose

Des Moines

,

Iowa

for your US RN career

Des Moines, located in Polk County in the Midwest region, offers a blend of urban and suburban lifestyles with a family-friendly atmosphere. The city experiences a humid continental climate, featuring hot summers and cold winters, while maintaining a relatively affordable cost of living. With ample parks, schools, and community activities, Des Moines is suitable for both families and singles seeking a balanced lifestyle.

What Makes

Des Moines

,

Iowa

a Top Location for US Nursing Jobs?

Climate:

Temperate

Cost of Living:

Average

Area Feel:

Urban

Culture:

Artistic hub

Cost of living

Is

Des Moines

,

Iowa

an Affordable Place to Work as a Nurse in the US?

In Des Moines, IA, the average monthly household expenses typically range around $3,000. This includes costs for housing, utilities, groceries, and transportation, with housing being the most significant expense. Overall, Des Moines offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to other major U.S. cities.

Housing Cost

Median Monthly Rent

$995.00

National $1,268/month

Monthly Rent

<$500
6%
$500-$999
44%
$1,000 - $1,499
37%
$1,500 - $1,999
10%
2,000+
2%

Rent vs Own

Rent
40%
Own
60%

Weather

What is the Weather like in

Des Moines

,

Iowa

for Nurses Relocating There?

Get familiar with the city's climate and weather patterns

Annual-averages

Precipitation

36 in

Snowfall

35.3 in

Annual Average High Temperature

60°F

Annual Average Low Temperature

41°F

Interested in Nursing Opportunities in

Des Moines

,

Iowa

?

Get more information on how your location preferences influence job matching, plus tips to focus your search.

Is the Community in

Des Moines

,

Iowa

a Good Fit for Nurses?

When relocating to

Des Moines

Iowa

for a long-term nursing assignment, it’s important to think about the kind of community you’ll be part of. Use the grades below to see how locals rate different community factors the area.

Access to Outdoor Activities
Access to Parks
Nightlife
Good for Retirees
Good for Young Professionals
Good for Families
Diversity

Discover a variety of community spaces in this city, including places of worship and community centers.

Walkability

How Do Nurses Get Around in

Des Moines

,

Iowa

When relocating to

Des Moines

Iowa

for a US nursing job, reliable transportation is an important part of planning for your shifts. While some areas may offer public transportation, most nurses find that having access to a car makes commuting to work and getting around the city more predictable. Use the charts below to see typical commute times, travel methods, and nearby airports you may use during your assignment.

How do people in

Des Moines

get to work?

Walking

Bicycle

Car

74%

Public Transportation

Average Travel Time To Work

20 Minutes

Nearest Airports

Airport 1

Distance 1

Airport 2

Distance 2

Airport 3

Distance 3

US Driving Conditions

Well-Mantained Roads
Enjoy a smooth drive on roads that are regularly maintained and paved.
Enhanced Visibility
Streets are well-lit, providing clear visibility at all times to enhace your safety.
Orderly Traffic Flow
Traffic lights and signs are strategically placed and followed, promoting an orderly flow of traffic.
Strict Law Adherence
Drivers and pedestrians alike adhere to traffic laws rigorously.

State Attractions

Botna Bend Park

Botna Bend Park offers a beautiful natural setting for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and picnicking, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and families seeking recreation.

Freedom Rock

Freedom Rock is a unique outdoor tribute to veterans featuring vibrant murals and a powerful message of patriotism, making it a must-visit for those wanting to honor and remember the sacrifices of servicemen and women.

Honey Creek State Park

Honey Creek State Park is a serene natural retreat offering scenic hiking trails, beautiful lake views, and opportunities for camping and fishing, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

Natural Pines Resort

Natural Pines Resort offers a serene escape into nature with stunning landscapes, outdoor recreational activities, and relaxing accommodations perfect for rejuvenation.

Buddy Holly Crash Site

The Buddy Holly Crash Site is a poignant historical landmark where fans can pay tribute to the legendary musician and reflect on his enduring legacy in rock and roll history.

Pioneer Ridge

Pioneer Ridge offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lush landscapes, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking hiking, wildlife watching, and serene vistas.

Rebel's Cove Conservation Area

Rebel's Cove Conservation Area offers visitors a serene natural escape with picturesque views, diverse wildlife, and opportunities for hiking and photography.

Little Sioux Park

Little Sioux Park offers visitors a serene natural setting with scenic trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for wildlife observation, making it an ideal spot for outdoor recreation and relaxation.

Viking Lake State Park Campground

Viking Lake State Park Campground offers a serene outdoor escape with beautiful lake views, hiking trails, and opportunities for fishing and wildlife observation, making it perfect for nature lovers and camping enthusiasts.

Bearcat Stadium

Bearcat Stadium is a premier venue for college football fans, offering an exciting atmosphere to enjoy thrilling games and support the local team.

Lakeview Campground

Lakeview Campground offers a serene escape into nature with stunning lake views, recreational activities like hiking and fishing, and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for relaxation.

Baird's Christmas Lights

Baird's Christmas Lights offers a dazzling display of festive lights and decorations that create a magical atmosphere perfect for holiday cheer and family enjoyment.

BRIDGEVIEW (RATHBUN LAKE) (recgovnpsdata)

Bridgeview at Rathbun Lake offers stunning views, recreational opportunities such as fishing and boating, and a serene natural environment perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Stephens State Forest

Stephens State Forest offers visitors a tranquil escape into nature with its extensive hiking trails, diverse wildlife, and opportunities for camping and outdoor recreation.

Forestville State Park Office

Reenactment of an 1800s village & a below-ground geological wonder, plus fishing & horse trails.

Niagara Cave

Karst caves with limestone rock formations & million-year-old aquatic fossils, plus guided tours.

Maquoketa Caves State Park

Park with hiking trails showcasing caves & other geological landmarks plus picnicking & camping.

Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens

Scenic 56-acre community space with 60+ types of gardens, plus a playground, trails, tours & events.

Memorial Park

Memorial Park offers expansive green spaces, scenic trails, and a peaceful environment for outdoor activities, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and recreation.

Flying Goose Campground and Resort

Flying Goose Campground and Resort offers a serene outdoor escape with scenic views, recreational activities like hiking and fishing, and a welcoming atmosphere for families and nature lovers alike.

Top Places to Visit Near

Des Moines

While Working as a Nurse

Center Grove Orchard

Center Grove Orchard offers a delightful experience with its pick-your-own fruits, family-friendly activities, and charming farm atmosphere perfect for creating lasting memories.

Jack Trice Stadium

This 55,000-seat stadium is home to the Iowa State Cyclones college football team.

Iowa State Capitol

Legislative building known for elegant, 1800s architecture & vast gilded dome, with tours available.

Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden

Seasonal blooms showcased outdoors & in a geodesic dome, plus educational programs & art shows.

Featured Cities

No items found.

What Cities Are Close to

Des Moines

,

Iowa

for Nurses Looking to Explore the US?

While working your nursing assignment in

Des Moines

Iowa

you’ll have days off to rest, recharge, or explore nearby areas. The cities listed below are popular destinations for day trips, weekend getaways, or unwinding between shifts.

Omaha

,

NE

12 km

This city offers a vibrant arts scene, delicious culinary experiences, and attractions like the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, making it an appealing destination for visitors.

Minneapolis

,

MN

12 km

This city is a vibrant city known for its stunning parks, rich arts scene, and iconic landmarks like the Mall of America and the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden.

Iowa City

,

IA

12 km

This city is renowned for its vibrant literary scene, charming historic districts, and beautiful parks, making it a perfect destination for book lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

What Are the Top Schools in

Des Moines

,

Iowa

for Nurses Relocating with Children?

When relocating to

Des Moines

Iowa

for a long-term nursing assignment, it’s important to think about your family’s education needs if you have children.Use the information below to explore top-rated schools and understand how local families feel about the options in the area.

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What Childcare Options Are Available for Nurses in

Des Moines

,

Iowa

?

Nurses relocating with children for a US nursing job in

Des Moines

Iowa

may want to explore childcare options that fit their family's needs. Common choices in the US include daycare centers and in home care for infants and toddlers, preschool programs for ages 3 to 5, and after school care for school-aged children. Since availability can vary by age and location, it is a good idea to start your search early.
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Use the map below to explore local childcare providers in

Des Moines

. Please note that only businesses listed on Google are shown, and some in home care options may not appear.