Des Moines Recognized as a Top Destination for Working Mothers
Des Moines, IA — A recent national study from Coworking Cafe has positioned the Des Moines metropolitan area as the second-best mid-sized city in the United States for working mothers. This study highlights several key metrics that contribute to the area’s favorable working conditions for mothers, illustrating Des Moines’ commitment to supporting families in the workforce.
One of the most striking findings of the study is that Des Moines has the lowest childcare costs in the country, accounting for merely 7% of a household’s income. Given the high financial burden often associated with childcare, this metric is particularly significant for working mothers seeking to balance career aspirations with family responsibilities. Such affordability in childcare is a critical factor that enables mothers to pursue employment opportunities and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Moreover, the average commute time in the Des Moines area stands at 20 minutes, ranking as the third-shortest among mid-sized metros. Short commute times are often associated with increased productivity and enhanced quality of life, allowing working mothers to spend more time with their families rather than in transit. This convenience further underscores the region’s appeal for employed mothers.
The study also reveals that the median income for working mothers in Des Moines is approximately ,000 per year, placing it fifth among mid-sized metro areas. This statistic underscores the economic viability for mothers in the region and reflects the potential for career advancement.
In terms of educational resources, the Des Moines metro area excels, ranking first in the nation for the number of schools and childcare centers per 100,000 children. This high availability of educational facilities ensures that working mothers have access to quality programs for their children, thus easing some of the childcare-related stress.
Healthcare access is another crucial factor for working mothers, with 79% of employed mothers in Des Moines having employer-based health insurance—nearly 10 percentage points above the national average. This availability of health benefits plays a vital role in ensuring the well-being of both mothers and their children, further supporting the community’s familial responsibilities.
Lastly, with air quality ranking 15th among mid-sized metro areas, Des Moines provides a healthier living environment, an important consideration for families, especially those with young children.
These findings collectively highlight Des Moines as not just a great place for working mothers, but as a community that prioritizes family welfare, economic viability, and quality living standards. For further insights, the full study can be accessed here.
