Cost of Living: Des Moines, IA vs Norman, OK (2026)

Des Moines

Iowa
70
VS

Norman

Oklahoma
76

Des Moines is 8% cheaper than Norman.

$1,054/mo ≈ Same
Median Rent
$1,064/mo ≈ Same
$63,966/yr ↓ 2%
Median Income
$65,060/yr ↑ 2%
$183,700 ↓ 23%
Home Value
$239,300 ↑ 30%
$1,137/mo ↑ 1%
Owner Costs
$1,121/mo ↓ 1%
212,464
Population
128,714

Tax Comparison

5.7%
Income Tax
4.75%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
4.5%
1.57%
Property Tax
0.9%

Affordability

19.8%
rent-to-income
Affordability
19.6%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Des Moines, IA and Norman, OK, the overall cost of living indices are 70 and 76 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $1,094/year higher in Norman. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Des Moines is $183,700 compared to $239,300 in Norman.

Oklahoma has a lower income tax rate, making Norman slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Des Moines vs Norman — common questions

Is Des Moines or Norman cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Des Moines is cheaper to live in with an index of 70 compared to 76 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Des Moines and Norman?
Median rent in Des Moines is $1,054/month and in Norman it's $1,064/month — a difference of $10/month.
Which city has higher income, Des Moines or Norman?
Median household income is $63,966 in Des Moines and $65,060 in Norman. Median household income is $1,094/year higher in Norman.
How do taxes compare between Iowa and Oklahoma?
Iowa has 5.7% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.57% property tax. Oklahoma has 4.75% income tax, 4.5% sales tax, and 0.9% property tax.
Should I move to Des Moines or Norman?
It depends on your priorities. Des Moines has a cost index of 70 with median rent of $1,054/mo, while Norman has a cost index of 76 with rent of $1,064/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Des Moines details → View Norman details →

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