Is Atlanta or Des Moines more affordable?
Atlanta has a median rent of $1,700/month, while Des Moines is $1,000/month. Des Moines is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Atlanta, GA vs Des Moines, IA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Atlanta and Des Moines.
2
Atlanta wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Des Moines wins
GA
Atlanta
vs
IA
Des Moines
Overview
498,715
Population
214,133
$72,081✓
Median Income
-20.9%$57,000
Cost of Living
$1,700
Median Rent / mo
-41.2%$1,000✓
$390,000
Median Home Price
-43.6%$220,000✓
28%
Rent-to-Income %
21%
Taxes
5.49%
State Income Tax
3.90%✓
8.90%
Local Tax Rate
7.00%
Climate & Weather
72°F
Avg High Temp
62°F
52°F
Avg Low Temp
41°F
217 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
204 days
52"
Annual Rainfall
36"
Who should choose
Atlanta, GA
Atlanta is a city in Georgia with a population of 498,715.
Read full Atlanta 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 →Atlanta vs Des Moines — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Atlanta or Des Moines?
Georgia has a 5.49% state income tax. Iowa has a 3.90% state income tax. Des Moines wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Atlanta and Des Moines?
Atlanta gets 217 sunny days/year. Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. Avg high in Atlanta: 72°F. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F
Which city is better for families — Atlanta or Des Moines?
Atlanta. 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.