Is Des Moines or Indianapolis more affordable?
Des Moines has a median rent of $1,000/month, while Indianapolis is $1,000/month. Both cities have similar rent costs.
City comparison
Des Moines, IA vs Indianapolis, IN
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Des Moines and Indianapolis.
3
Des Moines wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Indianapolis wins
IA
Des Moines
vs
IN
Indianapolis
Overview
214,133
Population
887,642
$57,000✓
Median Income
-10.1%$51,225
Cost of Living
$1,000
Median Rent / mo
-0.0%$1,000
$220,000✓
Median Home Price
+2.3%$225,000
21%
Rent-to-Income %
23%
Taxes
3.90%
State Income Tax
3.15%✓
7.00%
Local Tax Rate
7.00%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
62°F
41°F
Avg Low Temp
42°F
204 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
186 days
36"
Annual Rainfall
42"
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
Indianapolis, IN
Indianapolis is a city in Indiana with a population of 887,642.
Read full Indianapolis guide →Des Moines vs Indianapolis — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Des Moines or Indianapolis?
Iowa has a 3.90% state income tax. Indiana has a 3.15% state income tax. Indianapolis wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Des Moines and Indianapolis?
Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. Indianapolis gets 186 sunny days/year. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F. Avg high in Indianapolis: 62°F
Which city is better for families — Des Moines or Indianapolis?
Des Moines. Indianapolis. 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.