Is Aurora or Des Moines more affordable?
Aurora has a median rent of $1,650/month, while Des Moines is $1,000/month. Des Moines is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Aurora, CO vs Des Moines, IA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Aurora and Des Moines.
2
Aurora wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Des Moines wins
CO
Aurora
vs
IA
Des Moines
Overview
388,568
Population
214,133
$60,817✓
Median Income
-6.3%$57,000
Cost of Living
$1,650
Median Rent / mo
-39.4%$1,000✓
$440,000
Median Home Price
-50.0%$220,000✓
33%
Rent-to-Income %
21%
Taxes
4.40%
State Income Tax
3.90%✓
8.00%
Local Tax Rate
7.00%
Climate & Weather
65°F
Avg High Temp
62°F
38°F
Avg Low Temp
41°F
300 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
204 days
15"
Annual Rainfall
36"
Who should choose
Aurora, CO
Aurora is a city in Colorado with a population of 388,568.
Read full Aurora 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 →Aurora vs Des Moines — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Aurora or Des Moines?
Colorado has a 4.40% state income tax. Iowa has a 3.90% state income tax. Des Moines wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Aurora and Des Moines?
Aurora gets 300 sunny days/year. Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. Avg high in Aurora: 65°F. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F
Which city is better for families — Aurora or Des Moines?
Aurora. 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.