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Altoona Today
By the People, for the People
Greater Des Moines Approaches 1 Million Residents, Outpacing Midwest Peers
New analysis shows region leading in population, employment and GDP growth over the past decade
Published on Mar. 5, 2026
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The Greater Des Moines Partnership unveiled new analysis showing the region's combined statistical area (CSA), which includes the Des Moines and Ames metropolitan areas, is approaching the 1 million population milestone. The data reveals Greater Des Moines has outperformed Midwest peers across key economic indicators over the past decade, including the fastest population growth, second-highest GDP growth, and top employment growth in the region.
Why it matters
Reaching the 1 million population mark increases Greater Des Moines' visibility, enhances eligibility for larger federal and corporate investments, and signals the scale needed to compete for major projects. The region's sustained growth and economic strength position it as a national leader, defying national trends.
The details
According to the new analysis, population in the Greater Des Moines CSA is up 13.4% over the past decade, the fastest growth in the Midwest. Real GDP has increased more than 30% in the past decade, ranking #2 among Midwest peers, and employment has grown 13.3% in the last decade, ranking #1 among Midwest peers. The labor force in the Des Moines MSA is now 33% larger than in 2005.
- The Greater Des Moines Partnership unveiled the new analysis on March 5, 2026.
- The region is approaching the 1 million population milestone.
The players
James Chung
President of Reach Advisors, who conducted the data analysis on Greater Des Moines.
Tiffany Tauscheck
President and CEO of The Greater Des Moines Partnership, the regional business and economic development organization.
The Greater Des Moines Partnership
The largest regional business, economic development and talent development organization in Iowa and the second-largest regional chamber of commerce in the country.
What they’re saying
“Most people think this is normal. It's not. What's happening here is extraordinary.”
— James Chung, President of Reach Advisors
“This analysis confirms what we've experienced firsthand. Growth at this scale reflects years of collaboration across communities throughout our region. By aligning around shared priorities, we've created momentum that benefits Greater Des Moines and the state of Iowa — and positions our region for even greater opportunities as we approach one million residents.”
— Tiffany Tauscheck, President and CEO of The Greater Des Moines Partnership
What’s next
The data from the analysis is already being used to inform business recruitment, site selection conversations and long-term regional strategy for Greater Des Moines.
The takeaway
Greater Des Moines' sustained population, employment and GDP growth, paired with affordability and cross-sector collaboration, have positioned the region as a national leader, defying national trends and setting the stage for continued success as it approaches the 1 million resident milestone.
