Is Des Moines or Phoenix more affordable?
Des Moines has a median rent of $1,000/month, while Phoenix is $1,650/month. Des Moines is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Des Moines, IA vs Phoenix, AZ
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Des Moines and Phoenix.
2
Des Moines wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Phoenix wins
IA
Des Moines
vs
AZ
Phoenix
Overview
214,133
Population
1,608,139
$57,000
Median Income
+8.8%$62,000✓
Cost of Living
$1,000✓
Median Rent / mo
+65.0%$1,650
$220,000✓
Median Home Price
+90.9%$420,000
21%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
3.90%
State Income Tax
2.50%✓
7.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.60%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
86°F
41°F
Avg Low Temp
63°F
204 days
Sunny Days / Year
299 days✓
36"
Annual Rainfall
8"
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
Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix is a city in Arizona with a population of 1,608,139.
Read full Phoenix guide →Des Moines vs Phoenix — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Des Moines or Phoenix?
Iowa has a 3.90% state income tax. Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. Phoenix wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Des Moines and Phoenix?
Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. Phoenix gets 299 sunny days/year. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F. Avg high in Phoenix: 86°F
Which city is better for families — Des Moines or Phoenix?
Des Moines. Phoenix. 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.