Is Des Moines or Honolulu more affordable?
Des Moines has a median rent of $1,000/month, while Honolulu is $2,100/month. Des Moines is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Des Moines, IA vs Honolulu, HI
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Des Moines and Honolulu.
3
Des Moines wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Honolulu wins
IA
Des Moines
vs
HI
Honolulu
Overview
214,133
Population
347,397
$57,000
Median Income
+42.8%$81,376✓
Cost of Living
$1,000✓
Median Rent / mo
+110.0%$2,100
$220,000✓
Median Home Price
+240.9%$750,000
21%
Rent-to-Income %
31%
Taxes
3.90%✓
State Income Tax
11.00%
7.00%
Local Tax Rate
4.50%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
85°F
41°F
Avg Low Temp
73°F
204 days
Sunny Days / Year
278 days✓
36"
Annual Rainfall
24"
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
Honolulu, HI
Honolulu is a city in Hawaii with a population of 347,397.
Read full Honolulu guide →Des Moines vs Honolulu — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Des Moines or Honolulu?
Iowa has a 3.90% state income tax. Hawaii has a 11.00% state income tax. Des Moines wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Des Moines and Honolulu?
Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. Honolulu gets 278 sunny days/year. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F. Avg high in Honolulu: 85°F
Which city is better for families — Des Moines or Honolulu?
Des Moines. Honolulu. 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.