South Park Neighborhood, Des Moines

Crime Rate & Statistics

B+

Above-average safety — lower crime than most neighborhoods

Safer than 29% of neighborhoods in Des Moines

Safety at a Glance

Overall Crime High
Low 171 / 300 High
Violent Crime 157
57% above national avg
Property Crime 150
50% above national avg
City Ranking
29%
safer than other
Des Moines neighborhoods

Is South Park Safe?

South Park in Des Moines, IA has a safety grade of B+. The overall crime index is 171, which is 71% above the national average of 100. South Park is safer than 29% of neighborhoods in Des Moines.

Compared to the Des Moines average (crime index 128), South Park is 43% higher in overall crime. Residents and visitors should exercise extra caution in this area, particularly after dark.

Looking at specific crime types, murder is the most elevated concern (index: 172, 72% above average), while burglary is the lowest risk (index: 133).

Overall, South Park is considered a safe neighborhood for residents and visitors. Standard urban awareness is recommended, but the area benefits from lower-than-average crime rates across most categories.

Highest Risk
Murder · Index 172 (72% above avg)
Lowest Risk
Burglary · Index 133 (33% above avg)

South 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
172 +72% High
Assault
136 +36% Moderate
Robbery
159 +59% High
Rape
161 +61% High
Property Crime
Burglary
133 +33% Moderate
Larceny / Theft
162 +62% High
Vehicle Theft
155 +55% High

How South Park Compares

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

Crime by Category

Overall Crime Comparison

South 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

South Park Demographics & Context

Population
5,165
Median Income
$48,732
Home Value
$181,125
Median Age
34
Pop. Density
5,122/mi²

Education

Bachelor's Degree 8.1%
Graduate Degree 1.5%

Housing

47%
53%
Owner-occupied Renter-occupied

Racial Demographics

White 71.7%
Black 10.3%
Hispanic 17.2%
Asian 5.2%

Nearby Neighborhoods

Magnolia Park Index: 97
A
Fort Des Moines Index: 119
A-
Watrous Heights Index: 78
A
Somerset Index: 166
B+
Pioneer Park Index: 175
B-
Easter Lake Area Index: 96
A
Indianola Hills Index: 154
A
Watrous South Index: 124
A
South 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 Park, Des Moines?

South Park in Des Moines, IA has a crime safety grade of B+ as of 2026. The overall crime index is 171, which is 71% above the national average. Compared to the Des Moines average, crime in South Park is 43% higher. South Park is safer than 29% of neighborhoods in Des Moines.

Is South Park a safe neighborhood in Des Moines?

South Park is generally considered a safe neighborhood in Des Moines, earning a crime grade of B+. The highest concern is Murder (index: 172), while Burglary is the lowest risk (index: 133).

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

South Park's overall crime index is 171, compared to the Des Moines average of 128. This means crime in South Park is 43% higher than the city average. For violent crime, the index is 157, and for property crime it is 150. 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 Park?

The most prevalent crime type in South Park is Murder, with a crime index of 172 (72% above the national average). Violent crime is a particular concern in this neighborhood relative to property crime.

What are safer neighborhoods near South Park?

Nearby neighborhoods with good safety ratings include Magnolia Park, Fort Des Moines, Watrous Heights and Somerset. These areas are close to South Park and offer lower crime rates, making them worth considering for residents who prioritize safety.

What are the demographics of South Park?

South Park has a population of approximately 5,165. The median household income is $48,732. The median home value is $181,125. Research shows that economic factors can correlate with crime rates, though many other variables play a role in neighborhood safety.

How does South Park crime compare to the national average?

South Park's overall crime rate is 71% above the national average (index 171 vs 100). Within Des Moines, it is safer than 29% of neighborhoods. 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 March 2026.