Top neighborhoods for Mercy College of Health Sciences students

Students prioritize commute, safety, and social fit — not just lowest rent. These areas near Des Moines, IA are common starting points.

Des Moines Heights

The closest neighborhood to Mercy College of Health Sciences's main entrance. Walk to class in minutes — coffee shops and convenience stores line the main strip. Typical range: $900–$1,500/mo. Best for: Freshmen, commuters, anyone who wants zero commute.

• Vibe: Freshmen
• Explore listings in Des Moines Heights
• View Des Moines Heights → /housing/mercy-college-of-health-sciences/neighborhoods/des-moines-heights

Midtown

A lively area with bars, restaurants, and weekend activity. Ideal if you want a social scene steps from your apartment. Typical range: $850–$1,450/mo. Best for: Social students, upperclassmen, Greek life members.

• Vibe: Social students
• Explore listings in Midtown
• View Midtown → /housing/mercy-college-of-health-sciences/neighborhoods/midtown

Downtown

Quieter residential streets with single-family homes converted into multi-unit rentals. More space, lower prices, a short bike ride to campus. Typical range: $650–$1,100/mo. Best for: Graduate students, studious undergrads, budget-conscious renters.

• Vibe: Graduate students
• Explore listings in Downtown
• View Downtown → /housing/mercy-college-of-health-sciences/neighborhoods/downtown

College Hill

Downtown location with walkable access to the transit hub, employers, and city amenities — best for students with internships or part-time jobs. Typical range: $850–$1,350/mo. Best for: Commuters, students with off-campus internships, professionals.

• Vibe: Commuters
• Explore listings in College Hill
• View College Hill → /housing/mercy-college-of-health-sciences/neighborhoods/college-hill

How to compare neighborhoods

Treat safety like a student-life decision, not just rent: tour at night, confirm lighting and access control, and compare blocks instead of entire ZIP codes. Areas listed on this hub are ranked for student-friendly walkability and residential stability.

• Tour at night and on weekdays
• Check transit and parking options
• Compare total monthly cost, not rent alone
• Read area-specific listing pages on CollegeFind