Is Des Moines or Virginia Beach more affordable?
Des Moines has a median rent of $1,000/month, while Virginia Beach is $1,350/month. Des Moines is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Des Moines, IA vs Virginia Beach, VA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Des Moines and Virginia Beach.
3
Des Moines wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Virginia Beach wins
IA
Des Moines
vs
VA
Virginia Beach
Overview
214,133
Population
459,470
$57,000
Median Income
+25.5%$71,551✓
Cost of Living
$1,000✓
Median Rent / mo
+35.0%$1,350
$220,000✓
Median Home Price
+54.5%$340,000
21%
Rent-to-Income %
23%
Taxes
3.90%✓
State Income Tax
5.75%
7.00%
Local Tax Rate
6.00%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
67°F
41°F
Avg Low Temp
48°F
204 days
Sunny Days / Year
213 days✓
36"
Annual Rainfall
46"
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
Virginia Beach, VA
Virginia Beach is a city in Virginia with a population of 459,470.
Read full Virginia Beach guide →Des Moines vs Virginia Beach — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Des Moines or Virginia Beach?
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 Virginia Beach?
Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. Virginia Beach gets 213 sunny days/year. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F. Avg high in Virginia Beach: 67°F
Which city is better for families — Des Moines or Virginia Beach?
Des Moines. Virginia Beach. 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.