Is Des Moines or Spokane more affordable?
Des Moines has a median rent of $1,000/month, while Spokane is $1,200/month. Des Moines is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Des Moines, IA vs Spokane, WA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Des Moines and Spokane.
4
Des Moines wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Spokane wins
IA
Des Moines
vs
WA
Spokane
Overview
214,133
Population
228,989
$57,000✓
Median Income
-10.5%$51,000
Cost of Living
$1,000✓
Median Rent / mo
+20.0%$1,200
$220,000✓
Median Home Price
+50.0%$330,000
21%
Rent-to-Income %
28%
Taxes
3.90%
State Income Tax
None✓
7.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.90%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
57°F
41°F
Avg Low Temp
37°F
204 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
172 days
36"
Annual Rainfall
17"
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
Spokane, WA
Spokane is a city in Washington with a population of 228,989.
Read full Spokane guide →Des Moines vs Spokane — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Des Moines or Spokane?
Iowa has a 3.90% state income tax. Washington has no state income tax. Spokane wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Des Moines and Spokane?
Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. Spokane gets 172 sunny days/year. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F. Avg high in Spokane: 57°F
Which city is better for families — Des Moines or Spokane?
Des Moines. Spokane. 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.