Is Denver or Des Moines more affordable?
Denver has a median rent of $1,495/month, while Des Moines is $1,000/month. Des Moines is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Denver, CO vs Des Moines, IA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Denver and Des Moines.
1
Denver wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
4
Des Moines wins
CO
Denver
vs
IA
Des Moines
Overview
706,799
Population
214,133
$78,177✓
Median Income
-27.1%$57,000
Cost of Living
$1,495
Median Rent / mo
-33.1%$1,000✓
$459,100
Median Home Price
-52.1%$220,000✓
23%
Rent-to-Income %
21%
Taxes
4.40%
State Income Tax
3.90%✓
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
7.00%
Climate & Weather
56.19°F
Avg High Temp
62°F
51.3°F
Avg Low Temp
41°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
204 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
36"
Who should choose
Denver, CO
Denver is a city in Colorado with a population of 706,799.
Read full Denver 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 →Denver vs Des Moines — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Denver 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 Denver and Des Moines?
Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. Avg high in Denver: 56.19°F. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F
Which city is better for families — Denver or Des Moines?
Denver. 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.