Is Des Moines or Tampa more affordable?
Des Moines has a median rent of $1,000/month, while Tampa is $1,700/month. Des Moines is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Des Moines, IA vs Tampa, FL
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Des Moines and Tampa.
3
Des Moines wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Tampa wins
IA
Des Moines
vs
FL
Tampa
Overview
214,133
Population
400,753
$57,000✓
Median Income
-0.3%$56,842
Cost of Living
$1,000✓
Median Rent / mo
+70.0%$1,700
$220,000✓
Median Home Price
+70.5%$375,000
21%
Rent-to-Income %
36%
Taxes
3.90%
State Income Tax
None✓
7.00%
Local Tax Rate
7.50%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
81°F
41°F
Avg Low Temp
61°F
204 days
Sunny Days / Year
246 days✓
36"
Annual Rainfall
47"
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
Tampa, FL
Tampa is a city in Florida with a population of 400,753.
Read full Tampa guide →Des Moines vs Tampa — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Des Moines or Tampa?
Iowa has a 3.90% state income tax. Florida has no state income tax. Tampa wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Des Moines and Tampa?
Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. Tampa gets 246 sunny days/year. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F. Avg high in Tampa: 81°F
Which city is better for families — Des Moines or Tampa?
Des Moines. Tampa. 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.