Thinking about relocating to Des Moines and want a clear picture of homes and daily commute life before you make the move? You are not alone. Many buyers look south of Seattle for waterfront access, quicker trips to Sea-Tac, and a calmer pace without losing big-city access. In this guide, you will learn what to expect from Des Moines housing types, neighborhood patterns, commute options, and key due diligence steps so you can relocate with confidence. Let’s dive in.
Why Des Moines stands out
Des Moines sits on the Puget Sound shoreline between Sea-Tac Airport and Federal Way. You get direct access to the marina and beaches, plus quick connections to I‑5, SR 509, and SR 99 for regional travel. The location appeals if you want water views, short airport trips, and a reasonable commute to Seattle or the Eastside.
You will trade big-city nightlife for a more relaxed, waterfront lifestyle and lower density. Airport proximity is both a convenience and a consideration, since some areas experience aircraft noise. For many, the balance of shoreline amenities and access to major job centers makes Des Moines a standout choice.
Housing options and price context
Home types you will find
- Waterfront single-family homes and cottages near the Des Moines Marina and Des Moines Beach Park, with Redondo Beach offering a classic boardwalk feel.
- Interior single-family neighborhoods on suburban lots, plus pockets of newer infill.
- Townhomes and condominiums, often near main corridors and the SeaTac/Angle Lake area.
- A growing supply of rental apartments oriented to commuters and airport employees.
Affordability snapshot
Des Moines is generally more affordable than central Seattle and parts of the Eastside, while still pricing above many outlying exurban areas due to shoreline access and proximity to Sea-Tac. Prices and rents reflect regional market cycles. For current numbers on median sale price, inventory, and days on market, review local MLS data with your agent and confirm property values with King County Assessor records.
Inventory and competition
Expect competition for waterfront homes and newer townhome inventory. Seasonal patterns and interest-rate shifts can change activity quickly in the Puget Sound region. New construction and infill exist but are constrained by shoreline, zoning, and infrastructure, so supply near the water is limited. If you are targeting a specific micro-area, watch listings weekly and be prepared to move quickly.
Neighborhood overview
Marina waterfront and downtown
The marina and downtown waterfront offer views, recreation, and easy access to parks. Homes here often command a premium due to shoreline proximity and amenities. If you value walkable nodes, this area is a strong option to consider.
Redondo Beach area
Redondo Beach and Redondo Village deliver parks, a boardwalk vibe, and local restaurants by the water. Inventory can be tight, and homes with views are popular. If you want daily access to the shoreline, put this area on your tour list.
Inland residential neighborhoods
Inland pockets tend to be more affordable and provide quicker access to SR 509 and SR 516. You will find a mix of established streets and newer infill, plus easier on-off driving for south King County commutes.
Near Sea-Tac and Angle Lake
Areas closer to Sea-Tac and Angle Lake appeal to frequent fliers and airport workers who prioritize short drives. Weigh the convenience against potential aircraft noise by visiting at different times of day and checking airport noise resources.
If schools are a priority, confirm your specific address with the local district. Des Moines is served primarily by Highline Public Schools. Boundary lines can vary, so always verify for the exact property you are considering.
Commute and getting around
Driving basics
Des Moines is linked by Pacific Highway (SR 99) and SR 509, with connections to I‑5 via SR 516 and local arterials. Typical drive times vary by time of day:
- Des Moines to Sea-Tac Airport: about 5 to 15 minutes depending on exact location and traffic.
- Des Moines to downtown Seattle: often 25 to 50+ minutes, with congestion during peak commute windows.
- Des Moines to Bellevue/Redmond: typically 35 to 60 minutes depending on route and rush hour.
Morning traffic usually builds northbound toward Seattle and Bellevue, then reverses southbound in the evening. I‑405 and SR 520 use tolling; I‑5 does not but sees heavy congestion. Always check real-time conditions before you leave.
Public transit options
You have multiple transit paths:
- King County Metro provides local bus routes and connections to nearby cities.
- Sound Transit Express buses link to downtown Seattle, Bellevue, and Tacoma using highway corridors.
- Link light rail serves the south end from nearby stations in SeaTac and Angle Lake, offering reliable service to downtown Seattle. Park-and-ride lots are common, and the ORCA card works across regional transit systems.
Before choosing a home, look up the nearest bus routes, park-and-ride options, and Link station to test your door-to-desk commute.
Biking and walking
Waterfront areas and Redondo have walkable nodes and trails, while major commutes often share roads with traffic. Review local city maps for designated bike lanes and sidewalks by neighborhood.
Airport proximity
Proximity to Sea-Tac is a major plus for travel and business. It can also bring aircraft noise depending on the flight path and time of day. If this matters to you, sample a few addresses during weekday peaks and weekends, and review airport noise contour resources before you write an offer.
What to watch when buying
Waterfront due diligence
Shoreline properties deserve extra attention. Plan for inspections that address moisture, erosion, and drainage. If a seawall is present, verify ownership and maintenance duties, and factor in potential future repairs. Review flood zones, shoreline permits, and any dock or moorage rights that may affect value and insurance.
Noise and environmental factors
Check your property’s location against airport flight paths to understand typical noise levels. As with much of the Puget Sound region, earthquake preparedness is part of smart homeownership. Consider retrofit measures where relevant and review your insurance options. Property taxes vary by taxing district; confirm details through King County Assessor records. Utilities are administered by local providers, so verify service setup and costs for your address.
Schools and education
Most Des Moines addresses fall within Highline Public Schools, but you should confirm boundaries for the property you choose. Highline College serves the area for higher education and workforce programs, and regional colleges and universities are accessible by car or transit.
Renting vs buying in Des Moines
If you are on a tight timeline, renting first can reduce pressure while you learn the area. If you are ready to buy, get pre-approved with a local lender, monitor inventory for several weeks, and tour homes at different times of day to gauge commute and noise. Your best plan is the one that fits your budget, timing, and comfort with market competition.
Quick relocation checklist
- Test-drive your commute to Seattle, Bellevue, and Sea-Tac during your likely hours.
- Identify your nearest bus routes, park-and-ride, and the closest Link light rail station.
- Confirm school district boundaries for your exact address.
- Shortlist neighborhoods: marina waterfront, Redondo Beach, inland corridors, or near Sea-Tac.
- For shoreline homes: check flood maps, shoreline permits, seawall status, and any dock or moorage rights.
- Review King County property tax details and confirm utility providers and costs.
- Visit parks and beaches: Des Moines Marina, Des Moines Beach Park, and Redondo Beach Park.
- Track planned transit or roadway projects that could affect future access and resale.
How we help
Relocating is easier when you have local guidance and fast execution. Our team knows the south Sound commute patterns, shoreline nuances, and the competitive dynamics around marina and Redondo inventory. If you are buying, we map your commute options, preview off-market or renovation opportunities, and negotiate with speed when the right home appears. If you are selling, we highlight access to parks, the marina, and commute advantages to attract qualified buyers.
If you need certainty and speed, our cash-offer program can deliver a 7 to 14 day close on qualifying properties. Investors can tap into sourcing for fix and flip or buy-and-hold strategies across South King County. Ready to plan your move with a team that executes? Connect with AMP Properties Group NW to get started.
FAQs
How long is the commute from Des Moines?
- Typical drives are about 5–15 minutes to Sea-Tac, 25–50+ minutes to downtown Seattle, and 35–60 minutes to Bellevue or Redmond, depending on traffic and route.
Is aircraft noise a problem in Des Moines?
- Some areas are under Sea-Tac flight paths and experience noticeable noise at certain times; visit homes at different hours and review airport noise contour resources before you buy.
Which school district serves Des Moines addresses?
- Most addresses are served by Highline Public Schools, but boundaries vary by location; always confirm with the district for your specific property.
Are waterfront homes riskier to own?
- Waterfront ownership can involve erosion, flood risk, and seawall maintenance; plan specialized inspections, review shoreline permits, and confirm insurance availability and costs.
Should I rent first or buy in Des Moines?
- Rent if you need flexibility while you learn neighborhood patterns; buy once you are pre-approved, comfortable with the commute and noise, and ready to act on the right home.
What future transit changes could affect Des Moines?
- Planned Sound Transit expansions and local roadway projects may adjust future commute options and development; review official project pages for the latest timelines and station details.
