Des Moines: The Capital of Iowa

History and Geography

Des Moines (pronounced dəˈmɔɪn) is the capital and most populous city in the U.S. state of Iowa. It is the county seat of Polk County, with parts extending into Warren County.

Des Moines became the capital of Iowa in 1845 and is situated on the Des Moines River at its juncture with the Raccoon River.

Iowa: A Midwestern State

Iowa is the 26th largest state in total area and the 31st most populous, with a population of 3,190,369 according to the 2020 census.

• The state capital of Iowa is Des Moines.
• Des Moines is located in both Polk and Warren counties.
• The city of Des Moines is situated on the Des Moines River where it meets the Raccoon River.
• Iowa is the 26th largest state in terms of area and the 31st most populous state, with over 3 million residents.