Is Des Moines or San Jose more affordable?
Des Moines has a median rent of $1,000/month, while San Jose is $2,500/month. Des Moines is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Des Moines, IA vs San Jose, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Des Moines and San Jose.
3
Des Moines wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
San Jose wins
IA
Des Moines
vs
CA
San Jose
Overview
214,133
Population
1,013,240
$57,000
Median Income
+106.1%$117,474✓
Cost of Living
$1,000✓
Median Rent / mo
+150.0%$2,500
$220,000✓
Median Home Price
+400.0%$1,100,000
21%
Rent-to-Income %
26%
Taxes
3.90%✓
State Income Tax
9.30%
7.00%
Local Tax Rate
9.38%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
70°F
41°F
Avg Low Temp
50°F
204 days
Sunny Days / Year
257 days✓
36"
Annual Rainfall
15"
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 Jose, CA
San Jose is a city in California with a population of 1,013,240.
Read full San Jose guide →Des Moines vs San Jose — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Des Moines or San Jose?
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 Jose?
Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. San Jose gets 257 sunny days/year. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F. Avg high in San Jose: 70°F
Which city is better for families — Des Moines or San Jose?
Des Moines. San Jose. 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.