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

Tucson

Arizona
76
VS

Des Moines

Iowa
70

Tucson is 9% more expensive than Des Moines.

$1,079/mo ↑ 2%
Median Rent
$1,054/mo ↓ 2%
$54,546/yr ↓ 15%
Median Income
$63,966/yr ↑ 17%
$242,200 ↑ 32%
Home Value
$183,700 ↓ 24%
$1,076/mo ↓ 5%
Owner Costs
$1,137/mo ↑ 6%
543,348
Population
212,464

Tax Comparison

2.5%
Income Tax
5.7%
5.6%
State Sales Tax
6.0%
0.62%
Property Tax
1.57%

Affordability

23.7%
rent-to-income
Affordability
19.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Tucson, AZ and Des Moines, IA, the overall cost of living indices are 76 and 70 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $9,420/year higher in Des Moines. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Tucson is $242,200 compared to $183,700 in Des Moines.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Tucson vs Des Moines — common questions

Is Tucson 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 76 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Tucson and Des Moines?
Median rent in Tucson is $1,079/month and in Des Moines it's $1,054/month — a difference of $25/month.
Which city has higher income, Tucson or Des Moines?
Median household income is $54,546 in Tucson and $63,966 in Des Moines. Median household income is $9,420/year higher in Des Moines.
How do taxes compare between Arizona and Iowa?
Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. Iowa has 5.7% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.57% property tax.
Should I move to Tucson or Des Moines?
It depends on your priorities. Tucson has a cost index of 76 with median rent of $1,079/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.
View Tucson details → View Des Moines details →

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