Is Des Moines or Richmond more affordable?
Des Moines has a median rent of $1,000/month, while Richmond is $1,250/month. Des Moines is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Des Moines, IA vs Richmond, VA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Des Moines and Richmond.
4
Des Moines wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Richmond wins
IA
Des Moines
vs
VA
Richmond
Overview
214,133
Population
226,610
$57,000✓
Median Income
-8.8%$52,000
Cost of Living
$1,000✓
Median Rent / mo
+25.0%$1,250
$220,000✓
Median Home Price
+31.8%$290,000
21%
Rent-to-Income %
29%
Taxes
3.90%✓
State Income Tax
5.75%
7.00%
Local Tax Rate
6.00%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
68°F
41°F
Avg Low Temp
47°F
204 days
Sunny Days / Year
205 days✓
36"
Annual Rainfall
44"
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
Richmond, VA
Richmond is a city in Virginia with a population of 226,610.
Read full Richmond guide →Des Moines vs Richmond — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Des Moines or Richmond?
Iowa has a 3.90% state income tax. Virginia has a 5.75% state income tax. Des Moines wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Des Moines and Richmond?
Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. Richmond gets 205 sunny days/year. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F. Avg high in Richmond: 68°F
Which city is better for families — Des Moines or Richmond?
Des Moines. Richmond. 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.