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2024 Compare Cities Overview:
Des Moines, IA vs Ottumwa, IA

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Highlights
Are people in Ottumwa older or younger than people in Des Moines?
- The Median Age in Ottumwa is 3.5 years older than in Des Moines.

Are housing costs cheaper in Ottumwa or Des Moines?
- Ottumwa housing costs are 44.4% less expensive than Des Moines housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Ottumwa or Des Moines?
- The average commute for residents of Ottumwa is 2.5 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Des Moines.

Things to do in Des Moines?
Des Moines, Iowa is an exciting city full of possibilities for those who want to experience something new. Nature lovers can explore the trails at Water Works Park and admire the views of downtown from the Des Moines Riverwalk. History buffs can visit the State Capitol Building or learn more about local culture at the African American Museum of Iowa and Salisbury House & Garden. Arts enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the many galleries in town while foodies can find delicious eats at a variety of restaurants in the area. Shopping fans will love browsing through Jordan Creek Town Center or Valley West Mall. With its wide selection of attractions, Des Moines is an absolute must-visit destination!

Things to do in Ottumwa?
Ottumwa, IA is a charming city located in Wapello County. With an estimated population of 25,000 people, Ottumwa has something special for everyone. From outdoor activities like fishing and hiking to cultural attractions like the American Gothic House–there's always something new to explore in this lively city. Residents also benefit from easy access to quality public and private schools as well as excellent healthcare facilities. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation—Ottumwa has something special for everyone!

 Des Moines, IAOttumwa, IAUnited States
 Population213,54525,379329,725,481
 Median Income$58,444$48,198$69,021
 Median Age34.237.738.4
 Avg. Home Price$175,700$97,700$338,100
 Unemployment Rate5.9%5.2%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time18.8316.3826.38

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Reviews for Des Moines    53 Reviews

Des Moines is a ok and pretty quiet place but as a teen it could be dramatic because Des Moines do have is fair or violents places to avoid in Des Moines would be the  More

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Dude · 
Over 4 years ago

This city is violent, there are too many gangs especially on the north  More

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Over 5 years ago

Good for the old that like slow pace and cheap buffets. Also good for non-descript mid-westerners that don't like a lot of action. No nightlife or mountains to hike  More

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Reviews for Ottumwa    5 Reviews

Over 11 years ago

Ottumwa has a seemingly high rate of theft-related crimes as well as drug use which I'm sure correlates to the incidences of assault. For a community of 20-30,000, the  More

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Over 15 years ago

ottumwa, Iowa has no diverse culture. It is not very open especially when it comes to branching out to new ideas of others culture...The idea of culture here is the pro  More

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Over 16 years ago

Pros: 1. Extremely low cost of living and housing 2. Affordable place to live Cons: 1. High crime rate 2. Very poor school system 3. Economically depressed 4.  More

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ZIPS IN DES MOINES, IOWA
50317, 50315, 50310, 50320, 50313, 50316, 50312, 50311, 50314, 50321, 12 total
ZIPS IN OTTUMWA, IOWA
52501

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