Is Baltimore or Des Moines more affordable?
Baltimore has a median rent of $1,400/month, while Des Moines is $1,000/month. Des Moines is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Baltimore, MD vs Des Moines, IA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Baltimore and Des Moines.
1
Baltimore wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Des Moines wins
MD
Baltimore
vs
IA
Des Moines
Overview
576,498
Population
214,133
$52,164
Median Income
+9.3%$57,000✓
Cost of Living
$1,400
Median Rent / mo
-28.6%$1,000✓
$220,000
Median Home Price
-0.0%$220,000
32%
Rent-to-Income %
21%
Taxes
5.75%
State Income Tax
3.90%✓
6.00%
Local Tax Rate
7.00%
Climate & Weather
64°F
Avg High Temp
62°F
45°F
Avg Low Temp
41°F
210 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
204 days
43"
Annual Rainfall
36"
Who should choose
Baltimore, MD
Baltimore is a city in Maryland with a population of 576,498.
Read full Baltimore 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 →Baltimore vs Des Moines — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Baltimore or Des Moines?
Maryland has a 5.75% state income tax. Iowa has a 3.90% state income tax. Des Moines wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Baltimore and Des Moines?
Baltimore gets 210 sunny days/year. Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. Avg high in Baltimore: 64°F. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F
Which city is better for families — Baltimore or Des Moines?
Baltimore. 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.