Des Moines, IA vs Salem, OR: 70 vs 105

$1,054/mo ↓ 20%

Median Rent

$1,323/mo ↑ 26%

$63,966/yr ↓ 11%

Median Income

$71,900/yr ↑ 12%

$183,700 ↓ 52%

Home Value

$382,400 ↑ 108%

$1,137/mo ↓ 21%

Owner Costs

$1,440/mo ↑ 27%

212,464

Population

176,666

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Des Moines, IA and Salem, OR, the overall cost of living indices are 70 and 105 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $269/month cheaper in Des Moines, saving renters about $3,228/year.

Median household income is $7,934/year higher in Salem. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Des Moines is $183,700 compared to $382,400 in Salem.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Des Moines vs Salem — common questions

Is Des Moines or Salem cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Des Moines is cheaper to live in with an index of 70 compared to 105 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Des Moines and Salem?

Median rent in Des Moines is $1,054/month and in Salem it's $1,323/month — a difference of $269/month.

Which city has higher income, Des Moines or Salem?

Median household income is $63,966 in Des Moines and $71,900 in Salem. Median household income is $7,934/year higher in Salem.

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 Salem?

It depends on your priorities. Des Moines has a cost index of 70 with median rent of $1,054/mo, while Salem has a cost index of 105 with rent of $1,323/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Des Moines

Salem

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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