- Free Installation
- Free 360 Wi-Fi Equipment
- Speeds up to 8 Gbps
- $20 off per month with a AT&T Wireless Unlimited bundle
- Get 1 Gbps for $45/month
Electric Providers in Des Moines
Electricity is delivered exclusively by MidAmerican Energy (a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway). Because Iowa is a fully regulated energy state, residential retail shopping does not exist. You will establish service directly through their online portal or by calling (888) 427-5632. Iowa generates nearly 64% of its total electricity from wind — the highest percentage of any state. MidAmerican Energy offers a unique “100% Renewable Energy” option for residential households. This program tracks your consumption and matches it entirely with regional wind turbine farms at zero additional cost to your standard ~16¢ per kWh base rate.
Natural Gas Providers in Des Moines
Natural gas is also delivered across the city core by MidAmerican Energy. Like the electric grid, natural gas is entirely regulated by the state, meaning you must buy directly from the utility. Keep a close eye on your statements. MidAmerican has filed a natural gas rate restructuring request with the Iowa Utilities Commission (Docket No. RPU-2026-0001). While the full case undergoes standard state review, the utility has implemented an interim, temporary rate surcharge on monthly statements. These temporary increases are subject to potential refunds with interest if the final state ruling lowers them, but they will noticeably inflate your winter heating baseline right out of the gate.
Top 12 Internet Providers in Des Moines
Des Moines is a fast-paced broadband battleground split between Mediacom (cable infrastructure), Quantum Fiber (by CenturyLink/Lumen), and Google Fiber (GFiber), which has rapidly completed its extensive symmetrical fiber-to-the-home layout across the metro area. Mediacom provides near-universal regional coverage but continues to enforce strict monthly data caps on its standard tiers, alongside sharp price hikes after initial 12-month promotional periods expire. Conversely, GFiber offers flat, contract-free symmetrical gigabit speeds starting at $70 per month. If you are moving into one of the historic downtown loft developments in the East Village or along Court Avenue, verify building-level access early — some historic structures carry exclusive telecom agreements that blockade fiber line installations.
- 1 Gbps
- Cable
- 400GB-2TB
- 99.32%
- $49.99/mo
- 8 Gbps
- Fiber
- Unlimited
- Phone
- 94.13%
- $50.00/mo
- 940 Mbps
- Fiber
- 1 TB
- Phone
- 94.13%
- $50.00/mo
- 5 Gbps
- Fiber
- Unlimited
- 61.4%
- $29.95/mo
- 415 Mbps
- 5G
- 1.2 TB
- Mobile
- 100%
- $20.00/mo
- Wireless Internet
- 300 Mbps
- 5G
- Unlimited
- Mobile
- 100%
- $35.00/mo
- Wireless Internet
- 300 Mbps
- 5G
- Unlimited
- Mobile
- 98.76%
- $65.00/mo
- Wireless Internet
- 400 Mbps
- Satellite
- Unlimited
- 100%
- $55.00/mo
- 150 Mbps
- Satellite
- 150-850 GB
- Phone
- 100%
- $39.99/mo
- Varies
- Fiber, Cable, 5G, & Satellite
- Varies
- 95%
- $39.95/mo
- 8 Gbps
- Fiber
- Unlimited
- 42.15%
- $70.00/mo
- 2 Gbps
- Fiber
- Unlimited
- 5.45%
- $24.99/mo
Water & Sewage Providers in Des Moines
Water is managed by Des Moines Water Works (DMWW), reachable at (515) 283-8700. DMWW operates massive treatment infrastructure drawing from regional rivers and deep storage aquifers. Your monthly DMWW statement is a master consolidated bill that integrates your clean water consumption, wastewater/sewer treatment fees, stormwater management, and your city-contracted trash collection fees.
Top 23 Trash and Recycling Providers in Des Moines
Trash pickup is operated directly by the City of Des Moines Sanitation Collections Division in partnership with the Metro Waste Authority (MWA). Your rolling carts will be waiting at your new address, and the collection fees are automatically appended to your monthly DMWW water statement. Bins must be rolled curbside by 7:00 AM on your designated collection morning.
Utilities Summary for Des Moines, IA
| Electric Companies: | 1 |
| Natural Gas Companies: | 1 |
| Water & Sewage Providers: | 2 |
| Garbage, Trash & Recycling Providers: | 23 |
| Municipal Electricity: | No |
Des Moines is a vibrant and growing city in the heart of the Midwest, known for its friendly neighborhoods, rich cultural scene, and affordable living. As the capital and most populous city in Iowa, Des Moines blends small-town warmth with big-city amenities. Whether you’re drawn to the trendy shops and restaurants in the East Village, the family-friendly charm of Beaverdale, or the peaceful, suburban feel of Waveland Park, there’s a neighborhood to match every lifestyle.
The city is also known for its walkable downtown, impressive public art installations, and a strong focus on community development. With excellent schools, parks, and a burgeoning tech and insurance job market, it’s easy to see why Des Moines consistently ranks as one of the best places to live in the U.S.
Electricity in Des Moines
Electric service in Des Moines is primarily provided by MidAmerican Energy, a major utility serving much of Iowa. MidAmerican is known for its investments in renewable energy, over 88% of its electricity comes from wind power, and for providing reliable service at competitive rates. The company offers a mobile app for iOS and Android, which allows customers to manage accounts, view usage, and pay bills on the go.
MidAmerican is also deeply committed to sustainability and energy efficiency. They offer a variety of ways for residents to conserve energy, including smart thermostat incentives, energy audits, and customized efficiency tips.
Energy Efficiency Rebates
- Smart thermostats: Up to $100 rebate
- High-efficiency air conditioners: Up to $250
- Central air tune-ups: $50
- Insulation and air sealing: $0.10–$0.30 per sq. ft.
- ENERGY STAR appliances: Varies, typically $25–$75
- Lighting upgrades: Discounts through participating retailers
Natural Gas in Des Moines
Natural gas service in Des Moines is also provided by MidAmerican Energy, so you can manage both electric and gas service in one place. The convenience of bundled service, combined with their focus on energy efficiency, makes this a seamless experience for homeowners and renters alike.
MidAmerican encourages customers to conserve gas through improved insulation, efficient heating systems, and regular maintenance. Their HomeCheck® energy audit program includes evaluations for both electricity and natural gas usage.
Natural Gas Efficiency Rebates
- High-efficiency furnaces (90%+ AFUE): Up to $250
- Boilers: Up to $200
- Water heaters (tankless or ENERGY STAR models): Up to $100
- Insulation and duct sealing: Rebates based on square footage and insulation type
Customers can also use the MidAmerican mobile app to monitor gas usage and receive monthly energy reports with actionable suggestions.
Water in Des Moines
Water service in the city is handled by Des Moines Water Works (DMWW), an independently operated utility known for its high water quality and conservation efforts. Water is sourced from the Raccoon and Des Moines Rivers, treated at state-of-the-art facilities, and distributed across the city.
Helpful services from DMWW
- Online bill pay and account management
- Automatic leak detection alerts
- Usage tracking and comparison tools
Trash and Recycling
Solid waste collection in Des Moines is managed by the City of Des Moines Public Works Department. Trash, recycling, yard waste, and large item pickup services are all offered weekly or seasonally depending on the type of waste.
Residents receive rolling carts for trash (black) and recycling (blue), and must follow the city’s curbside schedule based on their address. The city also offers an optional green yard waste cart for seasonal debris, plus scheduled large item pickups like furniture and appliances.
Recycling in Des Moines is single-stream, meaning you can mix all your recyclables (cardboard, plastics, paper, and cans) in the blue cart. No need to sort! Recycling is collected every other week.
Key features
- Collection schedules and reminders available via DSM Mobile app
- Drop-off sites for hazardous waste and electronics
- Compost It! Program for yard waste
The city is working to increase its waste diversion rate and encourages residents to participate in recycling and composting programs.
Best Internet Providers in Des Moines
Des Moines has become increasingly competitive when it comes to internet service, with several fiber and 5G options available across the metro. Whether you need ultra-fast speeds for remote work or just a reliable connection for everyday browsing, there are solid providers to choose from.
- Quantum Fiber (in combination with CenturyLink)
- Offers speeds up to 8 Gbps in many neighborhoods, about 94% of the city
- No annual contracts and unlimited data
- Great for streamers, gamers, and work-from-home households
- Metronet
- 100% fiber-optic network
- Offers speeds up to 2 Gbps
- Known for excellent customer service and local support
- Available in about 61% of the area
- T-Mobile 5G Home Internet
- Plug-and-play setup with no installation fees
- Unlimited data with speeds between 100–300 Mbps
- Works well for renters or those in areas without fiber
- Verizon 5G Home Internet
- Similar to T-Mobile, with competitive pricing and speeds
- Often includes promotional offers like free streaming services
Be sure to check address-specific availability as fiber coverage is expanding rapidly in Des Moines.
Local Conservation, Sustainability & Green Energy Programs
Beyond provider-specific programs, Des Moines and Polk County offer various community-led initiatives focused on energy conservation and sustainability. These are great for residents who want to reduce their environmental impact and support a greener city.
City and Community Sustainability Programs
- Des Moines Clean Energy Resolution: The city aims to transition to 100% carbon-free electricity by 2035.
- Polk County Conservation: Offers workshops and resources on native landscaping, tree planting, and rain gardens.
- Rain Barrel & Compost Bin Rebates (through partnerships): Vouchers occasionally available for installing these eco-friendly systems.
Financial Assistance for Utility Bills in Des Moines
If you’re experiencing financial hardship, there are several options available to help you stay current on utility bills in Des Moines. Programs are available at the provider, city, and state levels.
Utility Provider Assistance
- MidAmerican Energy:
- Budget Billing: Smooth out seasonal fluctuations
- Project SHARE: Emergency assistance for heating bills
- LIHEAP-compatible support
- Des Moines Water Works:
- Customer Assistance Program (CAP) for income-eligible residents
- Payment plans available
City & Community-Based Help
- Impact Community Action Partnership (serves Polk County):
- Administers LIHEAP (Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program)
- Offers emergency utility assistance, weatherization services, and furnace repair/replacement
- Apply online or call 515-518-4770
State & Federal Programs
- LIHEAP (via Iowa DHS):
- Helps pay heating bills from October through April
- Prioritizes seniors, families with children, and disabled individuals
- Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP):
- Provides home insulation, furnace upgrades, and efficiency upgrades for qualifying households
About the Author
David has been an integral part of some of the biggest utility sites on the internet, including InMyArea.com, HighSpeedInternet.com, BroadbandNow.com, and U.S. News. He brings over 15 years of experience writing about, compiling and analyzing utility data.
Fastest Internet Providers in Des Moines
| Provider | Connection Type | Download Speed | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mediacom | Cable | 1 Gbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
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| Quantum Fiber | Fiber | 8 Gbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
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| CenturyLink | Fiber | 940 Mbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
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| Metronet | Fiber | 5 Gbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
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| T-Mobile 5G Home Internet | 5G | 415 Mbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
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| Verizon 5G Home Internet | 5G | 300 Mbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
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| AT&T Air | 5G | 300 Mbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
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| Starlink | Satellite | 400 Mbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
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| Viasat | Satellite | 150 Mbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
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| Earthlink | Fiber, Cable, 5G, & Satellite | Varies Not all speeds available in all areas |
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| Google Fiber | Fiber | 8 Gbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
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| Kinetic | Fiber | 2 Gbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
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Des Moines Drinking Water Quality Information
Clean drinking water is essential for maintaining good health and overall well-being. Safe, contaminant-free water helps prevent the spread of diseases, supports proper hydration, and ensures the body's vital functions operate smoothly.
Des Moines's Primary Drinking Water Source: Surface Water
Drinking Water Contaminant Levels
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Legal limit: 60 ppb
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Utilities in Nearby Cities
Frequently Asked Questions
How do the "Pink Stickers" work for extra moving trash?
Des Moines uses a strict user-fee system for overflowing waste. If you have an overwhelming mountain of moving boxes or extra trash bags that cannot physically fit inside your rolling cart with the lid closed entirely flat, you cannot just set them on the ground. You must purchase a pink $1 Extra Trash Sticker from local grocery stores (like Hy-Vee or Fareway) and stick it to each extra bag or box (max 40 lbs, max 2′ x 2′ x 3′).
How do I get rid of an old couch or mattress?
To dispose of large, bulky items like furniture or old household appliances, you must purchase a pink $5 Large Item Sticker. Once the sticker is affixed facing the street, you must call the city at (515) 283-4950 at least 24 hours in advance to schedule a dedicated bulk pickup. If you put it out without calling to schedule, the truck will leave it on the curb.
Why are the cart alignment rules so strictly monitored?
Des Moines’s automated mechanical truck arms require precise orientation. Your cart must be placed within 18 inches of the curb with the front metal bar directly facing the street. Crucially, you must maintain a strict three-foot clearance from all stationary objects — including mailboxes, utility poles, and even your blue recycling cart. If your bins are placed too close together, the automated driver will skip your property.
Why does my summer water bill spike even if I don't water the lawn?
DMWW utilizes a tiered volumetric pricing structure, but the biggest summer surprise for newcomers is the sewer surcharge. Because sewer fees are tied directly to your total metered water consumption, filling up a backyard pool or running a garden hose will artificially inflate your sewer bill. The city does not offer standard residential “irrigation meter” credits, so any water flowing through your main tap is billed as if it went straight down the drain.
How do I avoid getting trapped by a variable-rate energy contract?
Because Iowa is entirely regulated for residential electricity and natural gas, you do not have to worry about private alternative energy suppliers or aggressive door-to-door sales reps trying to switch your energy provider. Anyone claiming they can “lower your MidAmerican rate” by switching your core supply contract is a scammer. Your only path to a lower bill is enrolling in MidAmerican’s rolling Budget Billing or taking advantage of their free home energy audits.
What are the local laws regarding lawn clippings and yard waste?
Iowa state law strictly bans organic yard waste from entering standard landfills. From late March through December, Des Moines runs a dedicated yard waste collection on your regular trash day. You must place organic material loose inside an official MWA “Curb It” compost cart or packed inside heavy brown biodegradable paper yard bags featuring an official MWA yard waste sticker. Leaves placed in standard plastic garbage bags will be bypassed.