Des Moines is a village in Union County, New Mexico, United States. The population was 143 at the 2000 census. Des Moines is a small village surrounded by large cattle ranches. Just Southwest of the town Sierra Grande, the largest shield volcano in the Clayton and Raton volcanic field, can be found. The current population is 20% lower since the year 2000. Des Moines is known for its educational services, construction, and agriculture. The general cost of living index for Des Moines is 84.9.