Is Boise or Des Moines more affordable?
Boise has a median rent of $1,500/month, while Des Moines is $1,000/month. Des Moines is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Boise, ID vs Des Moines, IA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Boise and Des Moines.
2
Boise wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Des Moines wins
ID
Boise
vs
IA
Des Moines
Overview
241,150
Population
214,133
$62,000✓
Median Income
-8.1%$57,000
Cost of Living
$1,500
Median Rent / mo
-33.3%$1,000✓
$460,000
Median Home Price
-52.2%$220,000✓
29%
Rent-to-Income %
21%
Taxes
5.80%
State Income Tax
3.90%✓
6.00%
Local Tax Rate
7.00%
Climate & Weather
64°F
Avg High Temp
62°F
38°F
Avg Low Temp
41°F
206 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
204 days
12"
Annual Rainfall
36"
Who should choose
Boise, ID
Boise is a city in Idaho with a population of 241,150.
Read full Boise 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 →Boise vs Des Moines — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Boise or Des Moines?
Idaho has a 5.80% state income tax. Iowa has a 3.90% state income tax. Des Moines wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Boise and Des Moines?
Boise gets 206 sunny days/year. Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. Avg high in Boise: 64°F. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F
Which city is better for families — Boise or Des Moines?
Boise. 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.