Is Des Moines or Sacramento more affordable?
Des Moines has a median rent of $1,000/month, while Sacramento is $1,650/month. Des Moines is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Des Moines, IA vs Sacramento, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Des Moines and Sacramento.
3
Des Moines wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Sacramento wins
IA
Des Moines
vs
CA
Sacramento
Overview
214,133
Population
524,943
$57,000
Median Income
+6.5%$60,715✓
Cost of Living
$1,000✓
Median Rent / mo
+65.0%$1,650
$220,000✓
Median Home Price
+127.3%$500,000
21%
Rent-to-Income %
33%
Taxes
3.90%✓
State Income Tax
9.30%
7.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.75%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
73°F
41°F
Avg Low Temp
50°F
204 days
Sunny Days / Year
269 days✓
36"
Annual Rainfall
18"
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
Sacramento, CA
Sacramento is a city in California with a population of 524,943.
Read full Sacramento guide →Des Moines vs Sacramento — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Des Moines or Sacramento?
Iowa has a 3.90% state income tax. California has a 9.30% state income tax. Des Moines wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Des Moines and Sacramento?
Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. Sacramento gets 269 sunny days/year. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F. Avg high in Sacramento: 73°F
Which city is better for families — Des Moines or Sacramento?
Des Moines. Sacramento. 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.