Is Des Moines or Tulsa more affordable?
Des Moines has a median rent of $1,000/month, while Tulsa is $950/month. Tulsa is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Des Moines, IA vs Tulsa, OK
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Des Moines and Tulsa.
2
Des Moines wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Tulsa wins
IA
Des Moines
vs
OK
Tulsa
Overview
214,133
Population
413,066
$57,000✓
Median Income
-15.8%$48,000
Cost of Living
$1,000
Median Rent / mo
-5.0%$950✓
$220,000
Median Home Price
-13.6%$190,000✓
21%
Rent-to-Income %
24%
Taxes
3.90%✓
State Income Tax
4.75%
7.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.52%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
70°F
41°F
Avg Low Temp
49°F
204 days
Sunny Days / Year
216 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
Tulsa, OK
Tulsa is a city in Oklahoma with a population of 413,066.
Read full Tulsa guide →Des Moines vs Tulsa — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Des Moines or Tulsa?
Iowa has a 3.90% state income tax. Oklahoma has a 4.75% state income tax. Des Moines wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Des Moines and Tulsa?
Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. Tulsa gets 216 sunny days/year. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F. Avg high in Tulsa: 70°F
Which city is better for families — Des Moines or Tulsa?
Des Moines. Tulsa. 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.