Miami, FL vs Des Moines, IA: 129 vs 70

$1,657/mo ↑ 57%

Median Rent

$1,054/mo ↓ 36%

$59,390/yr ↓ 7%

Median Income

$63,966/yr ↑ 8%

$475,200 ↑ 159%

Home Value

$183,700 ↓ 61%

$1,666/mo ↑ 47%

Owner Costs

$1,137/mo ↓ 32%

446,663

Population

212,464

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Miami, FL and Des Moines, IA, the overall cost of living indices are 129 and 70 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $603/month cheaper in Des Moines, saving renters about $7,236/year.

Median household income is $4,576/year higher in Des Moines. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Miami is $475,200 compared to $183,700 in Des Moines.

Florida has no state income tax, giving Miami residents a significant tax advantage over Iowa's 5.7% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Miami vs Des Moines — common questions

Is Miami or Des Moines cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Des Moines is cheaper to live in with an index of 70 compared to 129 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Miami and Des Moines?

Median rent in Miami is $1,657/month and in Des Moines it's $1,054/month — a difference of $603/month.

Which city has higher income, Miami or Des Moines?

Median household income is $59,390 in Miami and $63,966 in Des Moines. Median household income is $4,576/year higher in Des Moines.

How do taxes compare between Florida and Iowa?

Florida has 0% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.86% property tax. Iowa has 5.7% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.57% property tax.

Should I move to Miami or Des Moines?

It depends on your priorities. Miami has a cost index of 129 with median rent of $1,657/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.

Cost of Living: Miami, FL vs Des Moines, IA (2026)

Miami

Des Moines

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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