Major Industries Major industries include financial and insurance, government, manufacturing, trade and service. Nearly 76 percent of homes in Des Moines are owned by their occupants. The public school systems in Greater Des Moines are among the best in the nation. Student test scores are consistently higher than the national average. Most school districts offer talented and gifted programs, special education programs, handicapped, vocational training and other specialized education services.
Standards are uniform and quality is consistent throughout the small and large districts.
More than 300 churches and synagogues in the area represent virtually every religious denomination. The Civic Center of Greater Des Moines is home to the Des Moines Symphony and Civic Music Association. The center also hosts major Broadway touring companies and current popular musicians. Other cultural attractions include the Des Moines Metro Opera and Des Moines Community Playhouse. The Des Moines Art Center has won international acclaim for its architectural design.