Des Moines County Public RecordsIowa

Des Moines County, Iowa, had approximately 26,000 registered voters as of 2024. Voters elect officials in federal, state, and local elections, including school and special referenda. In the 2020 presidential election, turnout was 73%, with 51% voting Republican and 47% Democrat. There are 18 polling locations across the county’s precincts. Key issues include local taxes, education, and economic development. Elections are overseen by the Des Moines County Auditor’s Office, with active participation from both Democratic and Republican parties, alongside some independents and third-party candidates.

Des Moines County, IA, has 17 public schools, including 4 high schools, and several private options. About 91% of adults hold a high school diploma, and 16% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. The average student-teacher ratio is 14:1. School safety initiatives are in place, with all schools reporting comprehensive emergency protocols. Academic performance varies, with standardized test scores near the state average. The county offers vocational and adult education programs at Southeastern Community College, serving about 2,500 students annually. Special education and career readiness programs are available countywide.

Des Moines County, IA, had an unemployment rate of 3.4% in April 2024. Major employment sectors include manufacturing (21%), health care and social assistance (19%), and retail trade (13%). The most common occupations are production (16%) and office/administrative support (14%). About 83% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 19 minutes; 82% work within the county, while the remainder travel to neighboring counties such as Lee or Henry. Employment is centered in Burlington, the county seat.

Des Moines County, IA, has a homeownership rate of approximately 69%, with median home values around $124,000 in 2023. Median rent is about $750/month. The housing market has seen modest growth, with values increasing roughly 2% year-over-year. Housing types primarily include single-family homes, with some apartments and duplexes in Burlington and West Burlington neighborhoods. Property taxes average 1.5% of assessed value. Notable neighborhoods include Flint Hills and North Hill.

As of the 2020 Census, Des Moines County, IA, had a population of 38,910. The median age was 43.3 years, with 19.2% under 18 and 20.1% aged 65 or older. The gender split was approximately 49% male and 51% female. Racially, the county was 87.2% White, 6.5% Black or African American, 1.1% Asian, 0.3% Native American, and 4.9% Hispanic or Latino of any race.

Des Moines County, IA, generally reports moderate crime rates compared to state averages. In 2022, the overall crime rate was approximately 2,540 incidents per 100,000 residents. Violent crime accounted for about 340 cases per 100,000, while property crime was higher, with around 2,200 cases per 100,000. The Burlington Police Department and the Des Moines County Sheriff’s Office actively report and address crime, promoting community safety through outreach and patrols. Although crime has slightly declined in recent years, residents are encouraged to stay informed and report suspicious activities to maintain safety.