Des Moines, IA vs Springfield, MA: 70 vs 79

$1,054/mo ↓ 5%

Median Rent

$1,114/mo ↑ 6%

$63,966/yr ↑ 25%

Median Income

$51,339/yr ↓ 20%

$183,700 ↓ 18%

Home Value

$222,700 ↑ 21%

$1,137/mo ↓ 11%

Owner Costs

$1,276/mo ↑ 12%

212,464

Population

154,751

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Des Moines, IA and Springfield, MA, the overall cost of living indices are 70 and 79 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $60/month cheaper in Des Moines, saving renters about $720/year.

Median household income is $12,627/year higher in Des Moines. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Des Moines is $183,700 compared to $222,700 in Springfield.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Des Moines vs Springfield — common questions

Is Des Moines or Springfield cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Des Moines is cheaper to live in with an index of 70 compared to 79 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Des Moines and Springfield?

Median rent in Des Moines is $1,054/month and in Springfield it's $1,114/month — a difference of $60/month.

Which city has higher income, Des Moines or Springfield?

Median household income is $63,966 in Des Moines and $51,339 in Springfield. Median household income is $12,627/year higher in Des Moines.

How do taxes compare between Iowa and Massachusetts?

Iowa has 5.7% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.57% property tax. Massachusetts has 9.0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.15% property tax.

Should I move to Des Moines or Springfield?

It depends on your priorities. Des Moines has a cost index of 70 with median rent of $1,054/mo, while Springfield has a cost index of 79 with rent of $1,114/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Des Moines, IA vs Springfield, MA (2026)

Des Moines

Springfield

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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