Is Arlington or Des Moines more affordable?
Arlington has a median rent of $1,300/month, while Des Moines is $1,000/month. Des Moines is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Arlington, TX vs Des Moines, IA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Arlington and Des Moines.
3
Arlington wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Des Moines wins
TX
Arlington
vs
IA
Des Moines
Overview
394,266
Population
214,133
$58,154✓
Median Income
-2.0%$57,000
Cost of Living
$1,300
Median Rent / mo
-23.1%$1,000✓
$290,000
Median Home Price
-24.1%$220,000✓
27%
Rent-to-Income %
21%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
3.90%
8.25%
Local Tax Rate
7.00%
Climate & Weather
77°F
Avg High Temp
62°F
55°F
Avg Low Temp
41°F
229 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
204 days
36"
Annual Rainfall
36"
Who should choose
Arlington, TX
Arlington is a city in Texas with a population of 394,266.
Read full Arlington guide →Who should choose
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines is a city in Iowa with a population of 214,133.
Read full Des Moines guide →Arlington vs Des Moines — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Arlington or Des Moines?
Texas has no state income tax. Iowa has a 3.90% state income tax. Arlington wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Arlington and Des Moines?
Arlington gets 229 sunny days/year. Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. Avg high in Arlington: 77°F. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F
Which city is better for families — Arlington or Des Moines?
Arlington. Des Moines. The right choice depends on your priorities — income, affordability, taxes, and climate all play a role.
More city comparisons
Data sourced from U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and NOAA. Green values indicate a better outcome for that metric.