Is Des Moines expensive to live in?

Des Moines is considered very affordable, with a cost index of 88 compared to the US average of 100. Living here costs about 12% less than the national average. The median monthly rent is $1,141, and the median household income is $63,966.

What salary do you need to live comfortably in Des Moines?

Using the standard 30% rent-to-income rule, you need at least $45,640/year to afford median rent in Des Moines. The median household income is $63,966, giving a rent-to-income ratio of 21%. Financial experts recommend keeping rent below 30% of gross income.

What is the average rent in Des Moines?

The median rent in Des Moines is $1,141 per month. Housing costs score 69 against the national average of 100, meaning housing is 31% cheaper than the US average.

How does Des Moines compare to the national average cost of living?

Des Moines's overall cost index is 88 vs the national average of 100. Breaking it down: housing (69), food & groceries (86), transportation (83), utilities (81), and healthcare (90). Des Moines is below average in most categories, making it a strong value destination.

Is Des Moines, Iowa a good place to live?

Des Moines has a population of 210,381 and a median household income of $63,966. With a cost index of 88, it offers strong affordability relative to the national average. The rent-to-income ratio is 21%, which is within healthy financial guidelines.

What are the cheapest cities near Des Moines?

To find the most affordable cities near Des Moines in Iowa, use the Livably city comparison tool or browse the Iowa state page. You can compare rent, cost index, income, and affordability side by side across all tracked cities.

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Des Moines

Monthly city intelligence across housing costs, tax load, and affordability signals to help you plan your next move with clearer numbers.

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Cost index: 88

Median rent: $1,141

Median income: $63,966

Cost Index

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Population

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Median Rent

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About Des Moines

Living in Des Moines, Iowa

Des Moines, Iowa is a growing city with a population of approximately 210,381. The overall cost of living index sits at 88, which is below the national average of 100. This means everyday expenses — housing, groceries, transportation, and healthcare — are roughly 12% less expensive compared to the typical U.S. city.

Housing is the largest cost driver in Des Moines. Median rent is $1,141 per month, while the median home price is $204,843. At a median household income of $63,966, rent consumes roughly 21% of gross income, which remains manageable relative to local incomes. The housing sub-index of 69 reflects well below-average housing expenses.

Beyond housing, healthcare is the most elevated non-shelter expense in Des Moines with a sub-index of 90, while utilities is comparatively more affordable at 81. State-level taxes also shape the true cost of living: Iowa applies a 5.70% income tax rate, and property tax averages 1.43% of assessed home value. The combined sales tax rate is 6.94%. Local income tax may apply in some municipalities.

Over the past twelve months, the cost of living in Des Moines has trended downward. Among the 2 tracked cities in Iowa, Des Moines ranks #1 from most to least affordable. Whether you're evaluating a job offer, planning a relocation, or comparing salary purchasing power, these numbers give a grounded, data-backed view of what life in Des Moines actually costs.

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