Des Moines, IA vs Tempe, AZ: 70 vs 120

$1,054/mo ↓ 35%

Median Rent

$1,623/mo ↑ 54%

$63,966/yr ↓ 18%

Median Income

$77,643/yr ↑ 21%

$183,700 ↓ 56%

Home Value

$421,900 ↑ 130%

$1,137/mo ↓ 27%

Owner Costs

$1,554/mo ↑ 37%

212,464

Population

186,419

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Des Moines, IA and Tempe, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 70 and 120 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $569/month cheaper in Des Moines, saving renters about $6,828/year.

Median household income is $13,677/year higher in Tempe. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Des Moines is $183,700 compared to $421,900 in Tempe.

Arizona has a lower income tax rate, making Tempe slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Des Moines vs Tempe — common questions

Is Des Moines or Tempe cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Des Moines is cheaper to live in with an index of 70 compared to 120 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Des Moines and Tempe?

Median rent in Des Moines is $1,054/month and in Tempe it's $1,623/month — a difference of $569/month.

Which city has higher income, Des Moines or Tempe?

Median household income is $63,966 in Des Moines and $77,643 in Tempe. Median household income is $13,677/year higher in Tempe.

How do taxes compare between Iowa and Arizona?

Iowa has 5.7% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.57% property tax. Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.

Should I move to Des Moines or Tempe?

It depends on your priorities. Des Moines has a cost index of 70 with median rent of $1,054/mo, while Tempe has a cost index of 120 with rent of $1,623/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Des Moines, IA vs Tempe, AZ (2026)

Des Moines

Tempe

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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