Why Live in River Woods
River Woods in Des Moines is a tranquil neighborhood along the Des Moines River, characterized by its abundant green spaces and serene atmosphere. The area is lightly populated, attracting families and retirees who appreciate a quieter lifestyle. River Woods is known for its outdoor features, including numerous sporting fields and public parks. The neighborhood is predominantly residential, with homes built mainly from the 1980s onwards, featuring Contemporary Craftsman and ranch-style designs. Properties often include wide driveways, two-car garages, and modern amenities like smart-home technology. The median yard size is less than 1/4 acre.
Hartford Avenue, a major thoroughfare, connects River Woods to downtown Des Moines, which is 5 miles northwest. The neighborhood is well-equipped with sidewalks and a 2-mile biking trail, promoting an active lifestyle. James W. Cownie Park, located in the northern part of River Woods, offers extensive recreational facilities, including the 5-mile Carl Voss Trail, baseball diamonds, and soccer fields. The park is a hub of activity, especially during warmer months.
Local businesses and restaurants are sparse within River Woods, but nearby areas like Indianola Hills and South Park provide dining and shopping options, including Scornovacca’s Ristorante and the Southgate Shopping Center. The neighborhood also hosts community events such as National Night Out and an annual holiday event featuring Santa Claus, fostering a strong sense of community. UnityPoint Health - Iowa Methodist Medical Center, specializing in cancer treatment and surgery, is 5 miles away. River Woods offers a peaceful residential area with a focus on outdoor activities and community engagement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is River Woods a good place to live?
River Woods is a good place to live. River Woods is considered very car-dependent and somewhat bikeable with minimal transit options. River Woods is a suburban neighborhood. River Woods has 6 parks for recreational activities. It is sparse in population with 2.2 people per acre and a median age of 34. The average household income is $87,798 which is below the national average. College graduates make up 19.8% of residents. A majority of residents in River Woods are home owners, with 37.4% of residents renting and 62.6% of residents owning their home. A
local real estate agent serving River Woods can help you decide if this neighborhood is the right one for you. Learn more on our
River Woods neighborhood guide.
Is River Woods, IA a safe neighborhood?
River Woods, IA is less safe than the average neighborhood in the United States. It received a crime score of 5 out of 10.
How much do you need to make to afford a house in River Woods?
The median home price in River Woods is $305,000. If you put a 20% down payment of $61,000 and had a 30-year fixed mortgage with an interest rate of 6.72%, your estimated principal and interest payment would be $1,580 a month plus property taxes, HOA fees, home insurance, PMI, and utilities. Using the 28% rule, you would need to make at least $68K a year to afford the median home price in River Woods. The average household income in River Woods is $88K.
What are the best public schools in River Woods?
The best public schools that serve River Woods are:
What are the most popular zip codes in River Woods, Des Moines, IA?
What are the most popular neighborhoods near River Woods, Des Moines, IA?
Home Trends in River Woods, IA
On average, homes in River Woods, Des Moines sell after 62 days on the market compared to the national average of 50 days. The median sale price for homes in River Woods, Des Moines over the last 12 months is $293,000, up 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Median Sale Price
$293,000
Median Single Family Sale Price
$296,650
Median 2 Bedroom Sale Price
$182,950
Average Price Per Sq Ft
$204
Number of Homes for Sale
4
Last 12 months Home Sales
43
Median List Price
$305,000
Median Change From 1st List Price
3%
Median Home Sale Price YoY Change
3%