Is Baton Rouge or Des Moines more affordable?
Baton Rouge has a median rent of $1,050/month, while Des Moines is $1,000/month. Des Moines is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Baton Rouge, LA vs Des Moines, IA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Baton Rouge and Des Moines.
1
Baton Rouge wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Des Moines wins
LA
Baton Rouge
vs
IA
Des Moines
Overview
227,549
Population
214,133
$49,000
Median Income
+16.3%$57,000✓
Cost of Living
$1,050
Median Rent / mo
-4.8%$1,000✓
$220,000
Median Home Price
-0.0%$220,000
26%
Rent-to-Income %
21%
Taxes
4.25%
State Income Tax
3.90%✓
9.95%
Local Tax Rate
7.00%
Climate & Weather
79°F
Avg High Temp
62°F
58°F
Avg Low Temp
41°F
219 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
204 days
60"
Annual Rainfall
36"
Who should choose
Baton Rouge, LA
Baton Rouge is a city in Louisiana with a population of 227,549.
Read full Baton Rouge 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 →Baton Rouge vs Des Moines — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Baton Rouge or Des Moines?
Louisiana has a 4.25% state income tax. Iowa has a 3.90% state income tax. Des Moines wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Baton Rouge and Des Moines?
Baton Rouge gets 219 sunny days/year. Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. Avg high in Baton Rouge: 79°F. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F
Which city is better for families — Baton Rouge or Des Moines?
Baton Rouge. 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.