Is Albuquerque or Des Moines more affordable?
Albuquerque has a median rent of $1,100/month, while Des Moines is $1,000/month. Des Moines is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Albuquerque, NM vs Des Moines, IA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Albuquerque and Des Moines.
1
Albuquerque wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
4
Des Moines wins
NM
Albuquerque
vs
IA
Des Moines
Overview
564,559
Population
214,133
$51,912
Median Income
+9.8%$57,000✓
Cost of Living
$1,100
Median Rent / mo
-9.1%$1,000✓
$255,000
Median Home Price
-13.7%$220,000✓
25%
Rent-to-Income %
21%
Taxes
5.90%
State Income Tax
3.90%✓
7.88%
Local Tax Rate
7.00%
Climate & Weather
70°F
Avg High Temp
62°F
46°F
Avg Low Temp
41°F
278 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
204 days
10"
Annual Rainfall
36"
Who should choose
Albuquerque, NM
Albuquerque is a city in New Mexico with a population of 564,559.
Read full Albuquerque guide →Who should choose
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines is a city in Iowa with a population of 214,133.
Read full Des Moines guide →Albuquerque vs Des Moines — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Albuquerque or Des Moines?
New Mexico has a 5.90% state income tax. Iowa has a 3.90% state income tax. Des Moines wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Albuquerque and Des Moines?
Albuquerque gets 278 sunny days/year. Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. Avg high in Albuquerque: 70°F. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F
Which city is better for families — Albuquerque or Des Moines?
Albuquerque. Des Moines. 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.