Is Des Moines or Arlington more affordable?
Des Moines has a median rent of $1,000/month, while Arlington is $1,300/month. Des Moines is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Des Moines, IA vs Arlington, TX
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Des Moines and Arlington.
2
Des Moines wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Arlington wins
IA
Des Moines
vs
TX
Arlington
Overview
214,133
Population
394,266
$57,000
Median Income
+2.0%$58,154✓
Cost of Living
$1,000✓
Median Rent / mo
+30.0%$1,300
$220,000✓
Median Home Price
+31.8%$290,000
21%
Rent-to-Income %
27%
Taxes
3.90%
State Income Tax
None✓
7.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.25%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
77°F
41°F
Avg Low Temp
55°F
204 days
Sunny Days / Year
229 days✓
36"
Annual Rainfall
36"
Who should choose
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines is a city in Iowa with a population of 214,133.
Read full Des Moines guide →Who should choose
Arlington, TX
Arlington is a city in Texas with a population of 394,266.
Read full Arlington guide →Des Moines vs Arlington — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Des Moines or Arlington?
Iowa has a 3.90% state income tax. Texas has no state income tax. Arlington wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Des Moines and Arlington?
Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. Arlington gets 229 sunny days/year. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F. Avg high in Arlington: 77°F
Which city is better for families — Des Moines or Arlington?
Des Moines. Arlington. 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.