Is Des Moines or Tucson more affordable?
Des Moines has a median rent of $1,000/month, while Tucson is $1,000/month. Both cities have similar rent costs.
City comparison
Des Moines, IA vs Tucson, AZ
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Des Moines and Tucson.
2
Des Moines wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Tucson wins
IA
Des Moines
vs
AZ
Tucson
Overview
214,133
Population
546,574
$57,000✓
Median Income
-25.1%$42,672
Cost of Living
$1,000
Median Rent / mo
-0.0%$1,000
$220,000✓
Median Home Price
+13.6%$250,000
21%
Rent-to-Income %
28%
Taxes
3.90%
State Income Tax
2.50%✓
7.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.70%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
80°F
41°F
Avg Low Temp
53°F
204 days
Sunny Days / Year
286 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
Tucson, AZ
Tucson is a city in Arizona with a population of 546,574.
Read full Tucson guide →Des Moines vs Tucson — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Des Moines or Tucson?
Iowa has a 3.90% state income tax. Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. Tucson wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Des Moines and Tucson?
Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. Tucson gets 286 sunny days/year. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F. Avg high in Tucson: 80°F
Which city is better for families — Des Moines or Tucson?
Des Moines. Tucson. 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.