Home / Select Cities  /  2024 Comparing Normal, IL vs. Des Moines, IA

2024 Compare Cities Overview:
Normal, IL vs Des Moines, IA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Des Moines older or younger than people in Normal?
- The Median Age in Des Moines is 9.1 years older than in Normal.

Are housing costs cheaper in Des Moines or Normal?
- Des Moines housing costs are 16.3% less expensive than Normal housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Des Moines or Normal?
- The average commute for residents of Des Moines is 1.0 minutes longer than it is for residents of Normal.

Things to do in Normal?
Normal, Illinois is a vibrant city located in McLean County, just north of Bloomington-Normal. It is home to Illinois State University and has a bustling downtown area with numerous shops, restaurants, and businesses. Normal is a major hub in the region for healthcare, finance and education opportunities. There are abundant recreational options including natural areas, parks and trails that offer plenty of outdoor activities. A variety of cultural amenities are also available such as theater performances, festivals, art galleries and other entertainment venues that give residents something to do in their spare time. Normal is truly a wonderful place where people can come together to work, play, learn and live!

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!

 Normal, ILDes Moines, IAUnited States
 Population53,446213,545329,725,481
 Median Income$58,564$58,444$69,021
 Median Age25.134.238.4
 Avg. Home Price$209,800$175,700$338,100
 Unemployment Rate4.4%5.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time17.818.8326.38

View More Data >

Reviews for Normal    5 Reviews

While not a perfect town by any stretch of the imagination, I have lived in Normal my entire life and I have to say that there are FAR worse places one could live. The  More

   |    Reply

Over 15 years ago

I would like to know more about the quality of education at Illinois State  More

   |    Reply

With relatively low crime, good schools and excellent access to higher education, Normal is a great place to raise a family. The city is trying to update its city center  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Normal

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

   |    Reply

Dude · 
Over 4 years ago

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

   |    Reply

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

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Des Moines

 Most Recent Searches On Compare Cities
COMPARE COST OF LIVING
Compare Normal, Illinois Cost of Living vs Des Moines, Iowa Cost of Living: Taxes, Childcare, Groceries, Health...
Compare Now


ZIPS IN NORMAL, ILLINOIS
61761
ZIPS IN DES MOINES, IOWA
50317, 50315, 50310, 50320, 50313, 50316, 50312, 50311, 50314, 50321, 12 total

PREMIUM SUBSCRIPTION

Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.

Try Now