Family Finds Work/Life Balance in DSM

You could call me an “Iowa Captive,” as family led me to Greater Des Moines (DSM). After meeting my future husband in California in the ‘90s, we relocated to Los Angeles, New York, Cedar Rapids and Chicago until my husband had the opportunity to move to DSM. It was never a secret that his dream was to leave sunny Pasadena for the comforts of the Midwest.

Making the Move

For a city that is consistently ranked as an affordable place to live and listed as one of the fastest-growing metros in the nation, DSM is a smart choice for relocating. The Greater Des Moines Partnership can assist with finding professionals jobs in and around DSM through the Career Center and Regional Business Directory, as well as aid with professional development opportunities and other employment resources.

Our now-family-of-five has resided in DSM for the past six years. I was surprised by the work/life balance I found here. As a woman working in the finance industry, as Chief Strategy Officer of Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines, while also raising three children, I’ve seen the “family first” mantra in action. The ability of parents to create more family time is one of the biggest reasons I have enjoyed living and working here. The ease of commuting to work and the cost of living enable women, and men, to find fulfillment with their family, as well as a meaningful career, without having to compromise either side.

Having worked in Los Angeles, New York and Chicago, I can appreciate the easier commute. A short 20-minute drive can be critical when unforeseen kid emergencies pop up or even for routine doctor’s appointments, school performances, volunteer opportunities, home service appointments and anything else needing to take place between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Because DSM is a family-focused city, putting family first is a normal part of everything we do here. Not only is a work/life balance possible, it’s encouraged!

Family-Friendly Options in DSM

When it comes to family-friendly attractions and events, DSM has so much to offer. Attractions like Art Route DSM, Broadway shows at the Des Moines Civic Center, miles of outdoor trails and festivals and markets keep your calendar full year-round. There are more than 3,300 new housing units planned or under construction in Downtown DSM’s unique neighborhoods or its surrounding suburbs. 

[Read more about the experience of moving to DSM.]

Are you interested in moving to Greater Des Moines (DSM)? Relocation Packets offer information on everything from neighborhoods to shopping, parks and local attractions. Or, kick start your career by checking out the DSM USA Career Center. It has over 10,000 jobs listed!