Cost of Living in Des Moines, IA
2026 data for Des Moines, IA • Population: 210,330
3% less expensive than the US average (100)
1-Bedroom Rent
Average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment
2-Bedroom Rent
Average monthly rent for a two-bedroom apartment
Median Income
Median household income in Des Moines
Population
Estimated population of Des Moines
How Far Does Your Salary Go?
A salary in Des Moines has different purchasing power than the national average. Use the equivalence below to understand what your salary is worth compared to the US average.
Formula: Your salary in Des Moines ÷ COL index × 100 = equivalent national salary. A $51,546 national salary gives you the same purchasing power as $50,000 in Des Moines.
Housing Affordability Analysis
Rent as % of Income
For a 1-bedroom apartment at median income. Experts suggest under 30% is affordable.
Monthly Rent to Income
Ratio of monthly income to monthly 1-bedroom rent.
What is a Cost of Living Index?
A cost of living index measures the relative cost of goods and services in a city compared to a national baseline (set at 100). An index of 150 means the city is 50% more expensive than average. An index of 80 means it's 20% cheaper than average.
The index typically includes housing, groceries, utilities, transportation, and healthcare—the major expense categories for households.
Compare with Other Cities
See how Des Moines's cost of living stacks up against nearby and similar cities.
Financial Tools to Explore
Use these Pulsafi calculators to plan your finances based on Des Moines's cost of living.
Salary Breakdown Calculator
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Rent vs Buy Calculator
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Budget Calculator
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Mortgage Calculator
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Cost of Living Guide for Des Moines, IA
Overview
Des Moines has a cost of living index of 97, making it 3% less expensive than the national average. With a population of 210,330 and a median household income of $55,234, understanding the true cost of living here is essential for financial planning.
Housing Market
The housing market in Des Moines reflects its cost of living index. A one-bedroom apartment averages $1,300 per month, while a two-bedroom apartment costs approximately $1,700 per month. For renters, this typically consumes 28.2% of the median household income—within the recommended 30% threshold.
Income and Affordability
With a median household income of $55,234, Des Moines residents earn slightly below the national median. When factoring in the local cost of living, a salary of $77,320in Des Moines provides the same purchasing power as $75,000 nationally.
Moving to Des Moines
Whether you're relocating for work or considering a move, understanding the cost of living in Des Moines is crucial. Use our calculators to determine if your salary can support your desired lifestyle here. Consider not just rent, but also food, utilities, transportation, and healthcare when budgeting.
Saving and Investing
Once you understand your cost of living in Des Moines, you can better plan your savings and investment strategy. Our financial tools help you determine how much you can realistically save each month and optimize your financial goals.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cost of Living in Des Moines
How does the cost of living in Des Moines compare to the national average?
Des Moines has a cost of living index of 97, which means it's 3% less expensive than the US average of 100. This affects everything from housing to groceries and utilities.
Is a $77,320 salary good for Des Moines?
A salary in Des Moines has different purchasing power than elsewhere. A $77,320 salary in Des Moines provides the same purchasing power as $75,000 nationally. Compare your salary to the median income of $55,234 to gauge your earning potential.
Can you afford to rent in Des Moines?
With a median household income of $55,234, a one-bedroom apartment averaging $1,300 per month consumes 28.2% of income. Financial experts recommend keeping rent under 30% of gross income—this is within that threshold.
Related Data for Des Moines, IA
Explore take-home pay, affordability, mortgages, and retirement benchmarks around Des Moines's median income.
Take-home pay on $55,000 in Iowa
Federal tax, state tax, Social Security, and Medicare breakdown.
What you can afford on $55,000 in Iowa
Home price, rent, and monthly spending guidelines.
Tax brackets on $55,000 in Iowa
See exactly which federal and state brackets your income crosses.
$200,000 mortgage in Iowa
Monthly payment, property tax, and total interest at typical rates.
Retirement at 30 earning $60,000
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Emergency fund target for $60,000
3, 6, 9, and 12-month targets at your income level.