Cost of Living: Detroit, MI vs Des Moines, IA (2026)

Detroit

Michigan
53
VS

Des Moines

Iowa
70

Detroit is 24% cheaper than Des Moines.

$1,034/mo ↓ 2%
Median Rent
$1,054/mo ↑ 2%
$39,575/yr ↓ 38%
Median Income
$63,966/yr ↑ 62%
$76,800 ↓ 58%
Home Value
$183,700 ↑ 139%
$868/mo ↓ 24%
Owner Costs
$1,137/mo ↑ 31%
636,644
Population
212,464

Tax Comparison

4.25%
Income Tax
5.7%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
6.0%
1.38%
Property Tax
1.57%

Affordability

31.4%
rent-to-income
Affordability
19.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Detroit, MI and Des Moines, IA, the overall cost of living indices are 53 and 70 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $24,391/year higher in Des Moines. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Detroit is $76,800 compared to $183,700 in Des Moines.

Michigan has a lower income tax rate, making Detroit slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Detroit vs Des Moines — common questions

Is Detroit or Des Moines cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Detroit is cheaper to live in with an index of 53 compared to 70 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Detroit and Des Moines?
Median rent in Detroit is $1,034/month and in Des Moines it's $1,054/month — a difference of $20/month.
Which city has higher income, Detroit or Des Moines?
Median household income is $39,575 in Detroit and $63,966 in Des Moines. Median household income is $24,391/year higher in Des Moines.
How do taxes compare between Michigan and Iowa?
Michigan has 4.25% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.38% property tax. Iowa has 5.7% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.57% property tax.
Should I move to Detroit or Des Moines?
It depends on your priorities. Detroit has a cost index of 53 with median rent of $1,034/mo, while Des Moines has a cost index of 70 with rent of $1,054/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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More Comparisons

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