Greater Des Moines Population Growth Outpaces Midwest Peers, Data Shows
Data presented today indicates the Greater Des Moines region is experiencing population and economic growth at a rate significantly higher than comparable Midwestern cities, raising questions about the region’s long-term sustainability and potential.
James Chung, president of Reach Advisors, delivered the findings at the Greater Des Moines Regional Summit last month, detailing a data analysis conducted in 2018, 2020, and again in 2025. His research confirms that since 2000, the region’s population and gross domestic product growth have exceeded those of both peer regions with populations between 500,000 and 1 million, and larger regions exceeding 1 million residents. “I am guessing most people in Greater Des Moines think that this is sort of normal,” Chung said. “And what’s happening in the Greater Des Moines region is not normal.”
The Greater Des Moines combined statistical area (CSA) currently stands at 940,000 residents, nearing the 1 million mark which is often seen as a threshold for attracting major economic development projects. Chung’s analysis attributes this growth to a combination of factors including a skilled labor force, regional capital investment, strong economic recovery, and a unique social dynamic fostering collaboration. This growth is particularly notable given national trends in population shifts, as detailed by the U.S. Census Bureau.
While the region’s success is attributed to collaborative efforts across sectors and jurisdictions, Chung cautioned that growth has shown signs of leveling off in recent years. He emphasized the importance of continued investment and collaboration to maintain momentum, noting that few regions sustain such prolonged growth – typically 20 to 25 years – into a 30 to 50-year trend. Further analysis of regional economic indicators can be found at Greater Des Moines Partnership. Chung urged the region to “Recognize it, own it, fight for it.”
Officials stated that continued commitment to regional collaboration will be key to reaching a population of 1 million, and are committed to analyzing the data to inform future decisions.
