Is Des Moines or Nashville more affordable?
Des Moines has a median rent of $1,000/month, while Nashville is $1,250/month. Des Moines is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Des Moines, IA vs Nashville, TN
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Des Moines and Nashville.
3
Des Moines wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Nashville wins
IA
Des Moines
vs
TN
Nashville
Overview
214,133
Population
682,646
$57,000
Median Income
+15.0%$65,565✓
Cost of Living
$1,000✓
Median Rent / mo
+25.0%$1,250
$220,000✓
Median Home Price
+32.5%$291,400
21%
Rent-to-Income %
23%
Taxes
3.90%
State Income Tax
None✓
7.00%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
57.52°F
41°F
Avg Low Temp
53.73°F
204 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
36"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
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
Nashville, TN
Nashville is a city in Tennessee with a population of 682,646.
Read full Nashville guide →Des Moines vs Nashville — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Des Moines or Nashville?
Iowa has a 3.90% state income tax. Tennessee has no state income tax. Nashville wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Des Moines and Nashville?
Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F. Avg high in Nashville: 57.52°F
Which city is better for families — Des Moines or Nashville?
Des Moines. Nashville. 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.