Is Des Moines or Detroit more affordable?
Des Moines has a median rent of $1,000/month, while Detroit is $800/month. Detroit is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Des Moines, IA vs Detroit, MI
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Des Moines and Detroit.
3
Des Moines wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Detroit wins
IA
Des Moines
vs
MI
Detroit
Overview
214,133
Population
672,662
$57,000✓
Median Income
-41.4%$33,381
Cost of Living
$1,000
Median Rent / mo
-20.0%$800✓
$220,000
Median Home Price
-61.4%$85,000✓
21%
Rent-to-Income %
29%
Taxes
3.90%✓
State Income Tax
4.25%
7.00%
Local Tax Rate
6.00%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
58°F
41°F
Avg Low Temp
40°F
204 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
183 days
36"
Annual Rainfall
34"
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
Detroit, MI
Detroit is a city in Michigan with a population of 672,662.
Read full Detroit guide →Des Moines vs Detroit — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Des Moines or Detroit?
Iowa has a 3.90% state income tax. Michigan has a 4.25% state income tax. Des Moines wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Des Moines and Detroit?
Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. Detroit gets 183 sunny days/year. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F. Avg high in Detroit: 58°F
Which city is better for families — Des Moines or Detroit?
Des Moines. Detroit. 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.