Is Des Moines or Milwaukee more affordable?
Des Moines has a median rent of $1,000/month, while Milwaukee is $900/month. Milwaukee is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Des Moines, IA vs Milwaukee, WI
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Des Moines and Milwaukee.
3
Des Moines wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Milwaukee wins
IA
Des Moines
vs
WI
Milwaukee
Overview
214,133
Population
577,222
$57,000✓
Median Income
-20.7%$45,191
Cost of Living
$1,000
Median Rent / mo
-10.0%$900✓
$220,000
Median Home Price
-25.0%$165,000✓
21%
Rent-to-Income %
24%
Taxes
3.90%✓
State Income Tax
7.65%
7.00%
Local Tax Rate
5.50%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
55°F
41°F
Avg Low Temp
37°F
204 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
188 days
36"
Annual Rainfall
35"
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
Milwaukee, WI
Milwaukee is a city in Wisconsin with a population of 577,222.
Read full Milwaukee guide →Des Moines vs Milwaukee — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Des Moines or Milwaukee?
Iowa has a 3.90% state income tax. Wisconsin has a 7.65% state income tax. Des Moines wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Des Moines and Milwaukee?
Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. Milwaukee gets 188 sunny days/year. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F. Avg high in Milwaukee: 55°F
Which city is better for families — Des Moines or Milwaukee?
Des Moines. Milwaukee. 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.