Is Des Moines or Philadelphia more affordable?
Des Moines has a median rent of $1,000/month, while Philadelphia is $1,100/month. Des Moines is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Des Moines, IA vs Philadelphia, PA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Des Moines and Philadelphia.
2
Des Moines wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Philadelphia wins
IA
Des Moines
vs
PA
Philadelphia
Overview
214,133
Population
1,603,797
$57,000✓
Median Income
-13.8%$49,127
Cost of Living
$1,000✓
Median Rent / mo
+10.0%$1,100
$220,000
Median Home Price
-4.5%$210,000✓
21%
Rent-to-Income %
27%
Taxes
3.90%
State Income Tax
3.07%✓
7.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.00%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
63°F
41°F
Avg Low Temp
44°F
204 days
Sunny Days / Year
208 days✓
36"
Annual Rainfall
42"
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
Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia is a city in Pennsylvania with a population of 1,603,797.
Read full Philadelphia guide →Des Moines vs Philadelphia — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Des Moines or Philadelphia?
Iowa has a 3.90% state income tax. Pennsylvania has a 3.07% state income tax. Philadelphia wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Des Moines and Philadelphia?
Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. Philadelphia gets 208 sunny days/year. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F. Avg high in Philadelphia: 63°F
Which city is better for families — Des Moines or Philadelphia?
Des Moines. Philadelphia. 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.