Is Des Moines or San Diego more affordable?
Des Moines has a median rent of $1,000/month, while San Diego is $2,100/month. Des Moines is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Des Moines, IA vs San Diego, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Des Moines and San Diego.
3
Des Moines wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
San Diego wins
IA
Des Moines
vs
CA
San Diego
Overview
214,133
Population
1,386,932
$57,000
Median Income
+39.8%$79,685✓
Cost of Living
$1,000✓
Median Rent / mo
+110.0%$2,100
$220,000✓
Median Home Price
+254.5%$780,000
21%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
3.90%✓
State Income Tax
9.30%
7.00%
Local Tax Rate
7.75%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
70°F
41°F
Avg Low Temp
55°F
204 days
Sunny Days / Year
266 days✓
36"
Annual Rainfall
12"
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
San Diego, CA
San Diego is a city in California with a population of 1,386,932.
Read full San Diego guide →Des Moines vs San Diego — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Des Moines or San Diego?
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 San Diego?
Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. San Diego gets 266 sunny days/year. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F. Avg high in San Diego: 70°F
Which city is better for families — Des Moines or San Diego?
Des Moines. San Diego. 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.