Is Des Moines or Salt Lake City more affordable?
Des Moines has a median rent of $1,000/month, while Salt Lake City is $1,450/month. Des Moines is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Des Moines, IA vs Salt Lake City, UT
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Des Moines and Salt Lake City.
3
Des Moines wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Salt Lake City wins
IA
Des Moines
vs
UT
Salt Lake City
Overview
214,133
Population
199,723
$57,000
Median Income
+1.8%$58,000✓
Cost of Living
$1,000✓
Median Rent / mo
+45.0%$1,450
$220,000✓
Median Home Price
+118.2%$480,000
21%
Rent-to-Income %
30%
Taxes
3.90%✓
State Income Tax
4.65%
7.00%
Local Tax Rate
7.75%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
65°F
41°F
Avg Low Temp
41°F
204 days
Sunny Days / Year
222 days✓
36"
Annual Rainfall
17"
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
Salt Lake City, UT
Salt Lake City is a city in Utah with a population of 199,723.
Read full Salt Lake City guide →Des Moines vs Salt Lake City — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Des Moines or Salt Lake City?
Iowa has a 3.90% state income tax. Utah has a 4.65% state income tax. Des Moines wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Des Moines and Salt Lake City?
Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. Salt Lake City gets 222 sunny days/year. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F. Avg high in Salt Lake City: 65°F
Which city is better for families — Des Moines or Salt Lake City?
Des Moines. Salt Lake 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.