Is Des Moines or Houston more affordable?
Des Moines has a median rent of $1,000/month, while Houston is $1,250/month. Des Moines is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Des Moines, IA vs Houston, TX
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Des Moines and Houston.
3
Des Moines wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Houston wins
IA
Des Moines
vs
TX
Houston
Overview
214,133
Population
2,304,580
$57,000✓
Median Income
-8.2%$52,338
Cost of Living
$1,000✓
Median Rent / mo
+25.0%$1,250
$220,000✓
Median Home Price
+20.5%$265,000
21%
Rent-to-Income %
29%
Taxes
3.90%
State Income Tax
None✓
7.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.25%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
77°F
41°F
Avg Low Temp
57°F
204 days
Sunny Days / Year
204 days
36"
Annual Rainfall
50"
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
Houston, TX
Houston is a city in Texas with a population of 2,304,580.
Read full Houston guide →Des Moines vs Houston — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Des Moines or Houston?
Iowa has a 3.90% state income tax. Texas has no state income tax. Houston wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Des Moines and Houston?
Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. Houston gets 204 sunny days/year. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F. Avg high in Houston: 77°F
Which city is better for families — Des Moines or Houston?
Des Moines. Houston. 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.