Is Des Moines or Miami more affordable?
Des Moines has a median rent of $1,000/month, while Miami is $1,361/month. Des Moines is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Des Moines, IA vs Miami, FL
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Des Moines and Miami.
4
Des Moines wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Miami wins
IA
Des Moines
vs
FL
Miami
Overview
214,133
Population
440,807
$57,000✓
Median Income
-16.0%$47,860
Cost of Living
$1,000✓
Median Rent / mo
+36.1%$1,361
$220,000✓
Median Home Price
+67.8%$369,100
21%
Rent-to-Income %
34%
Taxes
3.90%
State Income Tax
None✓
7.00%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
73.42°F
41°F
Avg Low Temp
69.03°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
Miami, FL
Miami is a city in Florida with a population of 440,807.
Read full Miami guide →Des Moines vs Miami — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Des Moines or Miami?
Iowa has a 3.90% state income tax. Florida has no state income tax. Miami wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Des Moines and Miami?
Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F. Avg high in Miami: 73.42°F
Which city is better for families — Des Moines or Miami?
Des Moines. Miami. 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.