Des Moines, IA vs Eugene, OR: 70 vs 111

$1,054/mo ↓ 22%

Median Rent

$1,347/mo ↑ 28%

$63,966/yr ≈ Same

Median Income

$63,836/yr ≈ Same

$183,700 ↓ 58%

Home Value

$435,400 ↑ 137%

$1,137/mo ↓ 20%

Owner Costs

$1,421/mo ↑ 25%

212,464

Population

177,520

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Des Moines, IA and Eugene, OR, the overall cost of living indices are 70 and 111 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $293/month cheaper in Des Moines, saving renters about $3,516/year.

Median household income is $130/year higher in Des Moines. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Des Moines is $183,700 compared to $435,400 in Eugene.

Iowa has a lower income tax rate, making Des Moines slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Des Moines vs Eugene — common questions

Is Des Moines or Eugene cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Des Moines is cheaper to live in with an index of 70 compared to 111 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Des Moines and Eugene?

Median rent in Des Moines is $1,054/month and in Eugene it's $1,347/month — a difference of $293/month.

Which city has higher income, Des Moines or Eugene?

Median household income is $63,966 in Des Moines and $63,836 in Eugene. Median household income is $130/year higher in Des Moines.

How do taxes compare between Iowa and Oregon?

Iowa has 5.7% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.57% property tax. Oregon has 9.9% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.

Should I move to Des Moines or Eugene?

It depends on your priorities. Des Moines has a cost index of 70 with median rent of $1,054/mo, while Eugene has a cost index of 111 with rent of $1,347/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Des Moines, IA vs Eugene, OR (2026)

Des Moines

Eugene

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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