Is Colorado Springs or Des Moines more affordable?
Colorado Springs has a median rent of $1,450/month, while Des Moines is $1,000/month. Des Moines is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Colorado Springs, CO vs Des Moines, IA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Colorado Springs and Des Moines.
2
Colorado Springs wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Des Moines wins
CO
Colorado Springs
vs
IA
Des Moines
Overview
478,221
Population
214,133
$66,013✓
Median Income
-13.7%$57,000
Cost of Living
$1,450
Median Rent / mo
-31.0%$1,000✓
$420,000
Median Home Price
-47.6%$220,000✓
26%
Rent-to-Income %
21%
Taxes
4.40%
State Income Tax
3.90%✓
8.25%
Local Tax Rate
7.00%
Climate & Weather
63°F
Avg High Temp
62°F
36°F
Avg Low Temp
41°F
297 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
204 days
17"
Annual Rainfall
36"
Who should choose
Colorado Springs, CO
Colorado Springs is a city in Colorado with a population of 478,221.
Read full Colorado Springs 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 →Colorado Springs vs Des Moines — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Colorado Springs 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 Colorado Springs and Des Moines?
Colorado Springs gets 297 sunny days/year. Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. Avg high in Colorado Springs: 63°F. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F
Which city is better for families — Colorado Springs or Des Moines?
Colorado Springs. 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.