The following data and statistics on crime, pollution, and overall safety in Des Moines are derived from a combination of trusted public sources and insights gathered from over 46 user contributions.

This comprehensive approach helps provide a balanced view of the city's crime rates, environmental concerns, air quality, and public safety. By aggregating information from government reports, environmental studies, and direct feedback from residents, we aim offer an up-to-date and thorough analysis of key factors impacting quality of life in Des Moines.

Crime Data in Des Moines

Crime Perception and Concerns

In 2024, Des Moines exhibits moderately low crime levels according to public perception. The city's residents show a mixed response to various crime aspects, but generally, there seems to be an encouraging sentiment of safety.

Public safety perceptions are notably higher during the day, overshadowing some lingering concerns about night-time security.

Some notable concerns include:

  • Property Crimes - Property crimes are of a relatively mild concern in Des Moines, with moderate anxiety regarding petty theft and similar offenses. While not exceedingly troublesome, these issues remain present in community discussions.
  • Drug-Related Issues - Drug-related problems are perceived as minor in Des Moines. While drug activity is noted, it doesn't significantly impact the city's overall crime outlook.
  • Violent Crimes - Concerns about violent crimes, such as assaults and robberies, are notably low. Residents feel less threatened by violent incidents, indicative of the city's efforts towards maintaining a peaceful environment.
  • Public Safety - The citizens of Des Moines feel quite secure during daylight hours, with the majority indicating confidence in conducting daily activities safely. However, some apprehensions about nighttime safety continue to exist.

Crime Trends and Safety

  • Rising Crime Concerns - Despite the generally positive safety sentiment, there is a discernible worry about increasing crime rates, with some residents expressing anxiety about a potential future surge.
  • Specific Fears - Specific fears are minimal, aside from some concern about theft and property crimes. There is a notable lack of fear related to racial, ethnic, or religious discrimination compared to broader crime statistics.

Summary of Crime in Des Moines

Overall, Des Moines enjoys a stable and relatively safe environment in 2024, with low levels of violent crime and reassuring public perceptions of safety. Ongoing vigilance towards property crimes and monitoring rising crime tendencies will further bolster community security.

Worldwide
United States

Crime Rankings

The crime ranking by city for the United States is based on a continuously updated index, incorporating data up to 36 months old and calculated twice a year. Cities are ranked on a scale from "very low" to "very high" crime levels, with safety being the inverse, where a high safety index indicates a safer city.

Highest to LowestUpdated: Dec, 2024
Full Crime Rankings

Pollution Data in Des Moines

Air Quality and Pollution Levels

Des Moines excels in managing air quality and pollution, with positive indicators in various environmental health aspects. The city boasts favorable air quality ratings, largely free from the adverse effects associated with urban pollution.

Particulate matter levels remain within acceptable thresholds, underscoring the city’s commitment to maintaining a clean atmosphere.

  • PM2.5 (Fine Particulate Matter) - PM2.5 concentrations are at a manageable level, posing minimal risk to residents and contributing to the city’s impressive air quality status.
  • PM10 (Coarse Particulate Matter) - Similarly, PM10 readings are well controlled, indicating a reliable standard of environmental health that supports the city’s commendable air quality.

Waste and Noise Pollution

Waste management in Des Moines is notably effective, with high satisfaction levels among residents regarding garbage disposal and city cleanliness.

Noise pollution is not seen as a significant issue, suggesting that the city manages its urban soundscape effectively.

  • Garbage Disposal Satisfaction - Residents express high satisfaction with the city's waste management systems, which effectively address garbage disposal needs, reinforcing Des Moines’ clean and tidy image.
  • Noise and Light Pollution - Noise and light pollution are minimal in Des Moines, contributing to a serene and conducive living environment.

Green Spaces and Water Quality

Des Moines takes pride in its green spaces, providing residents with ample recreational areas that enhance the quality of life and promote environmental health.

The city is also acclaimed for its excellent water quality, ensuring safe and pleasant water accessibility for its citizens.

  • Green and Parks Quality - The quality of parks and green areas in Des Moines is highly regarded by the community, serving as cherished spaces for relaxation and recreation.
  • Drinking Water Quality - Des Moines' drinking water quality receives strong approvals from residents, who benefit from safe, accessible, and reliable water sources.
Worldwide
United States

Pollution Rankings

The pollution ranking for the United States is based on a combination of visitor perceptions and data from institutions like the World Health Organization. The Pollution Index estimates overall pollution levels by considering air and water pollution, garbage disposal, and other factors, with air pollution given the highest weight, while the Pollution Exp Scale uses an exponential function to highlight extremely polluted cities.

Hightest to LowestUpdated: Dec, 2024
Full Pollution Rankings
Des Moines Crime and Pollution

"Key Takeaways"

Des Moines offers a secure environment with low violent crime rates and moderate property crime concerns, maintaining a generally positive public safety sentiment.

The city's pollution management is impressive, marked by excellent air quality, effective waste management, and minimal noise pollution, alongside celebrated green spaces and remarkable water quality.

By building on these strengths and addressing rising crime concerns, Des Moines is well-positioned to enhance its livability and environmental health in the years to come.