Is Des Moines or Los Angeles more affordable?
Des Moines has a median rent of $1,000/month, while Los Angeles is $1,852/month. Des Moines is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Des Moines, IA vs Los Angeles, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Des Moines and Los Angeles.
3
Des Moines wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Los Angeles wins
IA
Des Moines
vs
CA
Los Angeles
Overview
214,133
Population
3,898,747
$57,000
Median Income
+21.3%$69,144✓
Cost of Living
$1,000✓
Median Rent / mo
+85.2%$1,852
$220,000✓
Median Home Price
+240.9%$750,000
21%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
3.90%✓
State Income Tax
9.30%
7.00%
Local Tax Rate
9.50%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
75°F
41°F
Avg Low Temp
58°F
204 days
Sunny Days / Year
284 days✓
36"
Annual Rainfall
15"
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
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles is a city in California with a population of 3,898,747.
Read full Los Angeles guide →Des Moines vs Los Angeles — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Des Moines or Los Angeles?
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 Los Angeles?
Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. Los Angeles gets 284 sunny days/year. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F. Avg high in Los Angeles: 75°F
Which city is better for families — Des Moines or Los Angeles?
Des Moines. Los Angeles. 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.