Is Chattanooga or Des Moines more affordable?
Chattanooga has a median rent of $1,100/month, while Des Moines is $1,000/month. Des Moines is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Chattanooga, TN vs Des Moines, IA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Chattanooga and Des Moines.
2
Chattanooga wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Des Moines wins
TN
Chattanooga
vs
IA
Des Moines
Overview
181,099
Population
214,133
$52,000
Median Income
+9.6%$57,000✓
Cost of Living
$1,100
Median Rent / mo
-9.1%$1,000✓
$280,000
Median Home Price
-21.4%$220,000✓
25%
Rent-to-Income %
21%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
3.90%
9.25%
Local Tax Rate
7.00%
Climate & Weather
68°F
Avg High Temp
62°F
48°F
Avg Low Temp
41°F
215 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
204 days
54"
Annual Rainfall
36"
Who should choose
Chattanooga, TN
Chattanooga is a city in Tennessee with a population of 181,099.
Read full Chattanooga 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 →Chattanooga vs Des Moines — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Chattanooga or Des Moines?
Tennessee has no state income tax. Iowa has a 3.90% state income tax. Chattanooga wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Chattanooga and Des Moines?
Chattanooga gets 215 sunny days/year. Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. Avg high in Chattanooga: 68°F. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F
Which city is better for families — Chattanooga or Des Moines?
Chattanooga. 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.