Insurance Costs in Des Moines, IA
Auto insurance in Des Moines averages $1,467 per year for full coverage, which is lower than the national average. Here is a detailed breakdown of what residents pay.
Updated July 2026Auto Insurance in Des Moines, IA: What You Need to Know
Des Moines residents pay an average of $1,467 per year for full coverage auto insurance, which is 10.0% above the Iowa state average and 12.4% below the national average.
With a population of 214,133, Des Moines is a mid-size city in Iowa. Higher population density, more traffic congestion, and increased accident risk all contribute to above-average insurance rates.
Coverage Level Comparison
| Coverage Type | Annual Cost | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Full Coverage (100/300/100) | $1,467 | $122 |
| Standard Coverage (50/100/50) | $1,203 | $100 |
| State Minimum (20/40/15) | $616 | $51 |
Homeowners Insurance in Des Moines, IA
The average cost of homeowners insurance in Des Moines is $1,821 per year ($152/month), which is near the national average.
Home insurance costs are influenced by local factors including weather risks (hail, wind, flooding), property values, local building costs, and proximity to fire stations.
Renters Insurance in Des Moines, IA
Renters insurance in Des Moines averages $168 per year ($14/month). Renters insurance is affordable and protects your personal belongings, provides liability coverage, and may cover temporary living expenses if your rental becomes uninhabitable.
Compare with Other Iowa Cities
| City | Auto Insurance | Home Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Cedar Rapids | $1,267/yr | $1,647/yr |
| Davenport | $1,361/yr | $1,526/yr |
| Sioux City | $1,307/yr | $1,474/yr |
| Iowa City | $1,201/yr | $1,526/yr |
| Waterloo | $1,361/yr | $1,422/yr |
| Ames | $1,134/yr | $1,422/yr |
| Council Bluffs | $1,361/yr | $1,474/yr |
How to Save on Insurance in Des Moines
- Shop around. Get quotes from at least 3-5 different insurers. Rates in Des Moines can vary by $500 or more between companies for the same coverage.
- Bundle auto and home/renters. Many companies offer 10-25% off when you carry multiple policies.
- Increase your deductible. Raising your deductible from $500 to $1,000 can cut your premium by 15-30%.
- Ask about local discounts. Some insurers offer discounts for anti-theft devices, safe driving courses, or parking in a garage.
- Review coverage annually. Your needs change over time. Make sure you are not paying for coverage you do not need.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is car insurance in Des Moines, IA?
The average cost of car insurance in Des Moines, IA is $1,467 per year for full coverage, or about $122 per month. Minimum coverage costs around $616 per year.
Is car insurance expensive in Des Moines?
Car insurance in Des Moines is relatively affordable compared to many U.S. cities.
How much is home insurance in Des Moines?
Homeowners insurance in Des Moines costs an average of $1,821 per year. Your actual cost depends on your home's value, age, construction type, and specific location.