Des Moines, IA vs Cary, NC: 70 vs 135

$1,054/mo ↓ 35%

Median Rent

$1,621/mo ↑ 54%

$63,966/yr ↓ 51%

Median Income

$129,399/yr ↑ 102%

$183,700 ↓ 65%

Home Value

$525,200 ↑ 186%

$1,137/mo ↓ 35%

Owner Costs

$1,744/mo ↑ 53%

212,464

Population

176,686

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Des Moines, IA and Cary, NC, the overall cost of living indices are 70 and 135 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $567/month cheaper in Des Moines, saving renters about $6,804/year.

Median household income is $65,433/year higher in Cary. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Des Moines is $183,700 compared to $525,200 in Cary.

North Carolina has a lower income tax rate, making Cary slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Des Moines vs Cary — common questions

Is Des Moines or Cary cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Des Moines is cheaper to live in with an index of 70 compared to 135 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Des Moines and Cary?

Median rent in Des Moines is $1,054/month and in Cary it's $1,621/month — a difference of $567/month.

Which city has higher income, Des Moines or Cary?

Median household income is $63,966 in Des Moines and $129,399 in Cary. Median household income is $65,433/year higher in Cary.

How do taxes compare between Iowa and North Carolina?

Iowa has 5.7% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.57% property tax. North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.

Should I move to Des Moines or Cary?

It depends on your priorities. Des Moines has a cost index of 70 with median rent of $1,054/mo, while Cary has a cost index of 135 with rent of $1,621/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Des Moines, IA vs Cary, NC (2026)

Des Moines

Cary

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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