Is Bakersfield or Des Moines more affordable?
Bakersfield has a median rent of $1,150/month, while Des Moines is $1,000/month. Des Moines is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Bakersfield, CA vs Des Moines, IA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Bakersfield and Des Moines.
1
Bakersfield wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
4
Des Moines wins
CA
Bakersfield
vs
IA
Des Moines
Overview
403,455
Population
214,133
$55,026
Median Income
+3.6%$57,000✓
Cost of Living
$1,150
Median Rent / mo
-13.0%$1,000✓
$310,000
Median Home Price
-29.0%$220,000✓
25%
Rent-to-Income %
21%
Taxes
9.30%
State Income Tax
3.90%✓
8.25%
Local Tax Rate
7.00%
Climate & Weather
81°F
Avg High Temp
62°F
52°F
Avg Low Temp
41°F
276 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
204 days
7"
Annual Rainfall
36"
Who should choose
Bakersfield, CA
Bakersfield is a city in California with a population of 403,455.
Read full Bakersfield 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 →Bakersfield vs Des Moines — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Bakersfield or Des Moines?
California has a 9.30% state income tax. Iowa has a 3.90% state income tax. Des Moines wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Bakersfield and Des Moines?
Bakersfield gets 276 sunny days/year. Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. Avg high in Bakersfield: 81°F. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F
Which city is better for families — Bakersfield or Des Moines?
Bakersfield. 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.