Is Des Moines or Portland more affordable?
Des Moines has a median rent of $1,000/month, while Portland is $1,406/month. Des Moines is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Des Moines, IA vs Portland, OR
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Des Moines and Portland.
4
Des Moines wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Portland wins
IA
Des Moines
vs
OR
Portland
Overview
214,133
Population
647,176
$57,000
Median Income
+37.7%$78,476✓
Cost of Living
$1,000✓
Median Rent / mo
+40.6%$1,406
$220,000✓
Median Home Price
+110.4%$462,800
21%
Rent-to-Income %
21%
Taxes
3.90%✓
State Income Tax
9.90%
7.00%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
50.49°F
41°F
Avg Low Temp
46.76°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
Portland, OR
Portland is a city in Oregon with a population of 647,176.
Read full Portland guide →Des Moines vs Portland — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Des Moines or Portland?
Iowa has a 3.90% state income tax. Oregon has a 9.90% state income tax. Des Moines wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Des Moines and Portland?
Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F. Avg high in Portland: 50.49°F
Which city is better for families — Des Moines or Portland?
Des Moines. Portland. 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.