Is Charlotte or Des Moines more affordable?
Charlotte has a median rent of $1,450/month, while Des Moines is $1,000/month. Des Moines is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Charlotte, NC vs Des Moines, IA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Charlotte and Des Moines.
2
Charlotte wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Des Moines wins
NC
Charlotte
vs
IA
Des Moines
Overview
897,720
Population
214,133
$66,356✓
Median Income
-14.1%$57,000
Cost of Living
$1,450
Median Rent / mo
-31.0%$1,000✓
$380,000
Median Home Price
-42.1%$220,000✓
26%
Rent-to-Income %
21%
Taxes
4.75%
State Income Tax
3.90%✓
7.25%
Local Tax Rate
7.00%
Climate & Weather
71°F
Avg High Temp
62°F
50°F
Avg Low Temp
41°F
213 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
204 days
44"
Annual Rainfall
36"
Who should choose
Charlotte, NC
Charlotte is a city in North Carolina with a population of 897,720.
Read full Charlotte 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 →Charlotte vs Des Moines — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Charlotte or Des Moines?
North Carolina has a 4.75% state income tax. Iowa has a 3.90% state income tax. Des Moines wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Charlotte and Des Moines?
Charlotte gets 213 sunny days/year. Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. Avg high in Charlotte: 71°F. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F
Which city is better for families — Charlotte or Des Moines?
Charlotte. 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.