Is Des Moines or Oklahoma City more affordable?
Des Moines has a median rent of $1,000/month, while Oklahoma City is $1,050/month. Des Moines is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Des Moines, IA vs Oklahoma City, OK
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Des Moines and Oklahoma City.
3
Des Moines wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Oklahoma City wins
IA
Des Moines
vs
OK
Oklahoma City
Overview
214,133
Population
687,725
$57,000✓
Median Income
-6.1%$53,519
Cost of Living
$1,000✓
Median Rent / mo
+5.0%$1,050
$220,000
Median Home Price
-2.3%$215,000✓
21%
Rent-to-Income %
24%
Taxes
3.90%✓
State Income Tax
4.75%
7.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.63%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
71°F
41°F
Avg Low Temp
49°F
204 days
Sunny Days / Year
220 days✓
36"
Annual Rainfall
36"
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
Oklahoma City, OK
Oklahoma City is a city in Oklahoma with a population of 687,725.
Read full Oklahoma City guide →Des Moines vs Oklahoma City — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Des Moines or Oklahoma City?
Iowa has a 3.90% state income tax. Oklahoma has a 4.75% state income tax. Des Moines wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Des Moines and Oklahoma City?
Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. Oklahoma City gets 220 sunny days/year. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F. Avg high in Oklahoma City: 71°F
Which city is better for families — Des Moines or Oklahoma City?
Des Moines. Oklahoma City. 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.