Is Des Moines or New Orleans more affordable?
Des Moines has a median rent of $1,000/month, while New Orleans is $1,150/month. Des Moines is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Des Moines, IA vs New Orleans, LA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Des Moines and New Orleans.
3
Des Moines wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
New Orleans wins
IA
Des Moines
vs
LA
New Orleans
Overview
214,133
Population
383,997
$57,000✓
Median Income
-24.6%$42,996
Cost of Living
$1,000✓
Median Rent / mo
+15.0%$1,150
$220,000
Median Home Price
-2.3%$215,000✓
21%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
3.90%✓
State Income Tax
4.25%
7.00%
Local Tax Rate
9.45%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
77°F
41°F
Avg Low Temp
59°F
204 days
Sunny Days / Year
218 days✓
36"
Annual Rainfall
64"
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
New Orleans, LA
New Orleans is a city in Louisiana with a population of 383,997.
Read full New Orleans guide →Des Moines vs New Orleans — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Des Moines or New Orleans?
Iowa has a 3.90% state income tax. Louisiana has a 4.25% state income tax. Des Moines wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Des Moines and New Orleans?
Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. New Orleans gets 218 sunny days/year. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F. Avg high in New Orleans: 77°F
Which city is better for families — Des Moines or New Orleans?
Des Moines. New Orleans. 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.