South Oak Park Neighborhood, Des Moines

Last updated: May 5, 2026

Crime Rate & Statistics

B

Good safety — crime rates are below the national average

Summary: South Oak Park, Des Moines Crime Rate (2026)

South Oak Park in Des Moines, IA has a crime safety grade of B as of 2026. The overall crime index is 178, which is 78% above the national average.

Data source: FBI UCR & local law enforcement data. Last updated: May 5, 2026.

Safety at a Glance

Overall Crime High
Low 178 / 300 High
Violent Crime 150
50% above national avg
Property Crime 144
44% above national avg

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in Des Moines

Is South Oak Park Safe?

Yes — this neighborhood has good safety. South Oak Park in Des Moines, IA has a safety grade of B. The overall crime index is 178, which is 78% above the national average of 100.

Compared to the Des Moines average (crime index 128), South Oak Park is 50% higher in overall crime. Residents and visitors should exercise extra caution in this area, particularly after dark.

Looking at specific crime types, assault is the most elevated concern (index: 177, 77% above average), while robbery is the lowest risk (index: 78).

Highest Risk
Assault · Index 177 (77% above avg)
Lowest Risk
Robbery · Index 78 (22% below avg)

South Oak Park Crime Breakdown

Crime indices compared to national average (100) and Des Moines city average. Higher values mean more crime.

Crime Type Index vs National Risk Level
Violent Crime
Murder
167 +67% High
Assault
177 +77% High
Robbery
78 -22% Low
Rape
176 +76% High
Property Crime
Burglary
117 +17% Moderate
Larceny / Theft
146 +46% Moderate
Vehicle Theft
168 +68% High

How South Oak Park Compares

Crime index by category: South Oak Park vs Des Moines average vs national average.

Crime by Category

Overall Crime Comparison

South Oak Park Crime Map

Crime heatmap based on block-group level data. Red areas indicate higher crime density.

Full Screen Map
Crime Level: Low Below Avg Average Above Avg High

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South Oak Park Demographics & Context

Population
40
Median Income
$70,082
Home Value
$131,396
Median Age
35
Pop. Density
1,467/mi²

Education

Bachelor's Degree 7.9%
Graduate Degree 6.9%

Housing

50%
50%
Owner-occupied Renter-occupied

Racial Demographics

White 66.9%
Black 18.8%
Hispanic 10.8%
Asian 1.7%

Nearby Neighborhoods

Oak Park Index: 139
A
Prospect Park Index: 156
B-
Chautauqua Park Index: 169
C-
Mondamin Presidential Index: 153
B-
King Irving Index: 156
C+
Highland Park Index: 111
A-
River Bend Index: 163
C
Lower Beaver Index: 84
A
South Oak Park Crime Map
Interactive crime heatmap for this neighborhood
Des Moines Crime Statistics
View all Des Moines neighborhoods & city-wide data

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the crime rate in South Oak Park, Des Moines?

South Oak Park in Des Moines, IA has a crime safety grade of B as of 2026. The overall crime index is 178, which is 78% above the national average. Compared to the Des Moines average, crime in South Oak Park is 50% higher.

Is South Oak Park a safe neighborhood in Des Moines?

South Oak Park is generally considered a safe neighborhood in Des Moines, earning a crime grade of B. The highest concern is Assault (index: 177), while Robbery is the lowest risk (index: 78).

How does South Oak Park compare to the rest of Des Moines?

South Oak Park's overall crime index is 178, compared to the Des Moines average of 128. This means crime in South Oak Park is 50% higher than the city average. For violent crime, the index is 150, and for property crime it is 144. However, crime can vary block by block, so checking the crime map for specific streets is recommended.

What type of crime is most common in South Oak Park?

The most prevalent crime type in South Oak Park is Assault, with a crime index of 177 (77% above the national average). Violent crime is a particular concern in this neighborhood relative to property crime.

What are safer neighborhoods near South Oak Park?

Nearby neighborhoods with good safety ratings include Oak Park, Prospect Park, Mondamin Presidential and Highland Park. These areas are close to South Oak Park and offer lower crime rates, making them worth considering for residents who prioritize safety.

What are the demographics of South Oak Park?

South Oak Park has a population of approximately 40. The median household income is $70,082. The median home value is $131,396. Research shows that economic factors can correlate with crime rates, though many other variables play a role in neighborhood safety.

How does South Oak Park crime compare to the national average?

South Oak Park's overall crime rate is 78% above the national average (index 178 vs 100). For the most accurate picture, review the per-crime-type breakdown above, as some categories may differ significantly from the overall trend.

Crime data sourced from FBI UCR reports and local law enforcement agencies. Crime indices use 100 as the national average. Updated May 2026.