Is Des Moines or Kansas City more affordable?
Des Moines has a median rent of $1,000/month, while Kansas City is $1,100/month. Des Moines is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Des Moines, IA vs Kansas City, MO
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Des Moines and Kansas City.
3
Des Moines wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Kansas City wins
IA
Des Moines
vs
MO
Kansas City
Overview
214,133
Population
508,090
$57,000
Median Income
+1.0%$57,542✓
Cost of Living
$1,000✓
Median Rent / mo
+10.0%$1,100
$220,000✓
Median Home Price
+4.5%$230,000
21%
Rent-to-Income %
23%
Taxes
3.90%✓
State Income Tax
4.70%
7.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.60%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
65°F
41°F
Avg Low Temp
44°F
204 days
Sunny Days / Year
214 days✓
36"
Annual Rainfall
39"
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
Kansas City, MO
Kansas City is a city in Missouri with a population of 508,090.
Read full Kansas City guide →Des Moines vs Kansas City — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Des Moines or Kansas City?
Iowa has a 3.90% state income tax. Missouri has a 4.70% state income tax. Des Moines wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Des Moines and Kansas City?
Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. Kansas City gets 214 sunny days/year. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F. Avg high in Kansas City: 65°F
Which city is better for families — Des Moines or Kansas City?
Des Moines. Kansas City. 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.