Is Austin or Des Moines more affordable?
Austin has a median rent of $1,415/month, while Des Moines is $1,000/month. Des Moines is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Austin, TX vs Des Moines, IA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Austin and Des Moines.
2
Austin wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Des Moines wins
TX
Austin
vs
IA
Des Moines
Overview
944,658
Population
214,133
$78,965✓
Median Income
-27.8%$57,000
Cost of Living
$1,415
Median Rent / mo
-29.3%$1,000✓
$381,400
Median Home Price
-42.3%$220,000✓
22%
Rent-to-Income %
21%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
3.90%
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
7.00%
Climate & Weather
71.28°F
Avg High Temp
62°F
68.16°F
Avg Low Temp
41°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
204 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
36"
Who should choose
Austin, TX
Austin is a city in Texas with a population of 944,658.
Read full Austin 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 →Austin vs Des Moines — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Austin or Des Moines?
Texas has no state income tax. Iowa has a 3.90% state income tax. Austin wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Austin and Des Moines?
Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. Avg high in Austin: 71.28°F. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F
Which city is better for families — Austin or Des Moines?
Austin. 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.