Is Dallas or Des Moines more affordable?
Dallas has a median rent of $1,450/month, while Des Moines is $1,000/month. Des Moines is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Dallas, TX vs Des Moines, IA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Dallas and Des Moines.
2
Dallas wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Des Moines wins
TX
Dallas
vs
IA
Des Moines
Overview
1,304,379
Population
214,133
$54,747
Median Income
+4.1%$57,000✓
Cost of Living
$1,450
Median Rent / mo
-31.0%$1,000✓
$310,000
Median Home Price
-29.0%$220,000✓
32%
Rent-to-Income %
21%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
3.90%
8.25%
Local Tax Rate
7.00%
Climate & Weather
76°F
Avg High Temp
62°F
54°F
Avg Low Temp
41°F
234 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
204 days
38"
Annual Rainfall
36"
Who should choose
Dallas, TX
Dallas is a city in Texas with a population of 1,304,379.
Read full Dallas 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 →Dallas vs Des Moines — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Dallas or Des Moines?
Texas has no state income tax. Iowa has a 3.90% state income tax. Dallas wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Dallas and Des Moines?
Dallas gets 234 sunny days/year. Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. Avg high in Dallas: 76°F. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F
Which city is better for families — Dallas or Des Moines?
Dallas. 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.