Is Des Moines or Jacksonville more affordable?
Des Moines has a median rent of $1,000/month, while Jacksonville is $1,350/month. Des Moines is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Des Moines, IA vs Jacksonville, FL
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Des Moines and Jacksonville.
3
Des Moines wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Jacksonville wins
IA
Des Moines
vs
FL
Jacksonville
Overview
214,133
Population
949,611
$57,000✓
Median Income
-0.5%$56,732
Cost of Living
$1,000✓
Median Rent / mo
+35.0%$1,350
$220,000✓
Median Home Price
+34.1%$295,000
21%
Rent-to-Income %
29%
Taxes
3.90%
State Income Tax
None✓
7.00%
Local Tax Rate
7.50%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
77°F
41°F
Avg Low Temp
57°F
204 days
Sunny Days / Year
233 days✓
36"
Annual Rainfall
53"
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
Jacksonville, FL
Jacksonville is a city in Florida with a population of 949,611.
Read full Jacksonville guide →Des Moines vs Jacksonville — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Des Moines or Jacksonville?
Iowa has a 3.90% state income tax. Florida has no state income tax. Jacksonville wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Des Moines and Jacksonville?
Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. Jacksonville gets 233 sunny days/year. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F. Avg high in Jacksonville: 77°F
Which city is better for families — Des Moines or Jacksonville?
Des Moines. Jacksonville. 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.