Is Des Moines or Raleigh more affordable?
Des Moines has a median rent of $1,000/month, while Raleigh is $1,450/month. Des Moines is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Des Moines, IA vs Raleigh, NC
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Des Moines and Raleigh.
3
Des Moines wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Raleigh wins
IA
Des Moines
vs
NC
Raleigh
Overview
214,133
Population
467,665
$57,000
Median Income
+27.3%$72,571✓
Cost of Living
$1,000✓
Median Rent / mo
+45.0%$1,450
$220,000✓
Median Home Price
+81.8%$400,000
21%
Rent-to-Income %
24%
Taxes
3.90%✓
State Income Tax
4.75%
7.00%
Local Tax Rate
7.25%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
71°F
41°F
Avg Low Temp
50°F
204 days
Sunny Days / Year
213 days✓
36"
Annual Rainfall
46"
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
Raleigh, NC
Raleigh is a city in North Carolina with a population of 467,665.
Read full Raleigh guide →Des Moines vs Raleigh — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Des Moines or Raleigh?
Iowa has a 3.90% state income tax. North Carolina has a 4.75% state income tax. Des Moines wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Des Moines and Raleigh?
Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. Raleigh gets 213 sunny days/year. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F. Avg high in Raleigh: 71°F
Which city is better for families — Des Moines or Raleigh?
Des Moines. Raleigh. 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.