Is Des Moines or Fresno more affordable?
Des Moines has a median rent of $1,000/month, while Fresno is $1,100/month. Des Moines is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Des Moines, IA vs Fresno, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Des Moines and Fresno.
4
Des Moines wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Fresno wins
IA
Des Moines
vs
CA
Fresno
Overview
214,133
Population
542,107
$57,000✓
Median Income
-16.4%$47,625
Cost of Living
$1,000✓
Median Rent / mo
+10.0%$1,100
$220,000✓
Median Home Price
+45.5%$320,000
21%
Rent-to-Income %
28%
Taxes
3.90%✓
State Income Tax
9.30%
7.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.35%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
78°F
41°F
Avg Low Temp
53°F
204 days
Sunny Days / Year
272 days✓
36"
Annual Rainfall
11"
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
Fresno, CA
Fresno is a city in California with a population of 542,107.
Read full Fresno guide →Des Moines vs Fresno — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Des Moines or Fresno?
Iowa has a 3.90% state income tax. California has a 9.30% state income tax. Des Moines wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Des Moines and Fresno?
Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. Fresno gets 272 sunny days/year. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F. Avg high in Fresno: 78°F
Which city is better for families — Des Moines or Fresno?
Des Moines. Fresno. 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.