Is Des Moines or Minneapolis more affordable?
Des Moines has a median rent of $1,000/month, while Minneapolis is $1,350/month. Des Moines is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Des Moines, IA vs Minneapolis, MN
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Des Moines and Minneapolis.
4
Des Moines wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Minneapolis wins
IA
Des Moines
vs
MN
Minneapolis
Overview
214,133
Population
429,954
$57,000
Median Income
+15.8%$66,023✓
Cost of Living
$1,000✓
Median Rent / mo
+35.0%$1,350
$220,000✓
Median Home Price
+43.2%$315,000
21%
Rent-to-Income %
25%
Taxes
3.90%✓
State Income Tax
9.85%
7.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.03%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
55°F
41°F
Avg Low Temp
37°F
204 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
198 days
36"
Annual Rainfall
30"
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
Minneapolis, MN
Minneapolis is a city in Minnesota with a population of 429,954.
Read full Minneapolis guide →Des Moines vs Minneapolis — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Des Moines or Minneapolis?
Iowa has a 3.90% state income tax. Minnesota has a 9.85% state income tax. Des Moines wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Des Moines and Minneapolis?
Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. Minneapolis gets 198 sunny days/year. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F. Avg high in Minneapolis: 55°F
Which city is better for families — Des Moines or Minneapolis?
Des Moines. Minneapolis. 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.