Is Des Moines or Albuquerque more affordable?
Des Moines has a median rent of $1,000/month, while Albuquerque is $1,100/month. Des Moines is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Des Moines, IA vs Albuquerque, NM
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Des Moines and Albuquerque.
4
Des Moines wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Albuquerque wins
IA
Des Moines
vs
NM
Albuquerque
Overview
214,133
Population
564,559
$57,000✓
Median Income
-8.9%$51,912
Cost of Living
$1,000✓
Median Rent / mo
+10.0%$1,100
$220,000✓
Median Home Price
+15.9%$255,000
21%
Rent-to-Income %
25%
Taxes
3.90%✓
State Income Tax
5.90%
7.00%
Local Tax Rate
7.88%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
70°F
41°F
Avg Low Temp
46°F
204 days
Sunny Days / Year
278 days✓
36"
Annual Rainfall
10"
Who should choose
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines is a city in Iowa with a population of 214,133.
Read full Des Moines guide →Who should choose
Albuquerque, NM
Albuquerque is a city in New Mexico with a population of 564,559.
Read full Albuquerque guide →Des Moines vs Albuquerque — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Des Moines or Albuquerque?
Iowa has a 3.90% state income tax. New Mexico has a 5.90% state income tax. Des Moines wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Des Moines and Albuquerque?
Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. Albuquerque gets 278 sunny days/year. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F. Avg high in Albuquerque: 70°F
Which city is better for families — Des Moines or Albuquerque?
Des Moines. Albuquerque. 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.