Is Des Moines or Chicago more affordable?
Des Moines has a median rent of $1,000/month, while Chicago is $1,209/month. Des Moines is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Des Moines, IA vs Chicago, IL
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Des Moines and Chicago.
4
Des Moines wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Chicago wins
IA
Des Moines
vs
IL
Chicago
Overview
214,133
Population
2,742,119
$57,000
Median Income
+15.4%$65,781✓
Cost of Living
$1,000✓
Median Rent / mo
+20.9%$1,209
$220,000✓
Median Home Price
+26.2%$277,600
21%
Rent-to-Income %
22%
Taxes
3.90%✓
State Income Tax
4.95%
7.00%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
54.12°F
41°F
Avg Low Temp
49.03°F
204 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
36"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
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
Chicago, IL
Chicago is a city in Illinois with a population of 2,742,119.
Read full Chicago guide →Des Moines vs Chicago — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Des Moines or Chicago?
Iowa has a 3.90% state income tax. Illinois has a 4.95% state income tax. Des Moines wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Des Moines and Chicago?
Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F. Avg high in Chicago: 54.12°F
Which city is better for families — Des Moines or Chicago?
Des Moines. Chicago. 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.