Wichita, KS vs Des Moines, IA: 65 vs 70

$960/mo ↓ 9%

Median Rent

$1,054/mo ↑ 10%

$63,072/yr ↓ 1%

Median Income

$63,966/yr ↑ 1%

$179,500 ↓ 2%

Home Value

$183,700 ↑ 2%

$994/mo ↓ 13%

Owner Costs

$1,137/mo ↑ 14%

396,488

Population

212,464

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Wichita, KS and Des Moines, IA, the overall cost of living indices are 65 and 70 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $94/month cheaper in Wichita, saving renters about $1,128/year.

Median household income is $894/year higher in Des Moines. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Wichita is $179,500 compared to $183,700 in Des Moines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Wichita vs Des Moines — common questions

Is Wichita or Des Moines cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Wichita is cheaper to live in with an index of 65 compared to 70 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Wichita and Des Moines?

Median rent in Wichita is $960/month and in Des Moines it's $1,054/month — a difference of $94/month.

Which city has higher income, Wichita or Des Moines?

Median household income is $63,072 in Wichita and $63,966 in Des Moines. Median household income is $894/year higher in Des Moines.

How do taxes compare between Kansas and Iowa?

Kansas has 5.7% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 1.41% property tax. Iowa has 5.7% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.57% property tax.

Should I move to Wichita or Des Moines?

It depends on your priorities. Wichita has a cost index of 65 with median rent of $960/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: Wichita, KS vs Des Moines, IA (2026)

Wichita

Des Moines

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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