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 Home > Search > Local History > Men and Women of Iowa > Population  
LOCAL HISTORY
 

Population of Des Moines

Des Moines’ population has varied over the years, generally increasing, sometimes decreasing, and peaking in 1960. The next census, to be taken in 2010, will update these figures. Here’s how the city has changed since its founding:

1847 - 127

1850 - 502

1860 - 3,965

1870 - 12,055

1880 - 22,408

1890 - 50,093

1900 - 62,139

1910 - 83,368

1920 - 126,468

1930 - 142,559

1940 - 159,819

1950 - 177,965

1960 - 208,982

1970 - 201,404

1980 - 191,003

1990 - 193,187

2000 - 198,682

Sources
Brigham, Johnson. Des Moines and Polk County, Iowa. Chicago, 1911.
Des Moines Tribune, May 18, 1960.
United States Census Bureau.

 
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