Chicago, Illinois vs. Des Moines, Iowa

Cost of Living Comparison

The cost of living in Des Moines, Iowa is 26.7% cheaper than Chicago, Illinois.

You would need a salary of $73,277 in Des Moines, Iowa to maintain the standard of living you have in Chicago, Illinois.
Comparison highlights
• Overall, Des Moines, Iowa is cheaper than Chicago, Illinois
• Median Home Cost is the biggest factor in the cost of living difference.
Median Home Cost
38% cheaper in Des Moines
than in Chicago, Illinois
Chicago, IL vs. Des Moines, IA
Compared to Chicago, Des Moines is:
  Homeowner
      No Child Care, Taxes not Considered
  26.7% lower
      Child Care, Taxes not Considered
      Child Care, Taxes Considered
      No Child Care, Taxes Considered
  Renter
      No Child Care, Taxes not Considered
      Child Care, Taxes not Considered
      Child Care, Taxes Considered
      No Child Care, Taxes Considered
  Food
  1.2% lower
  Housing (Homeowner)
  38.5% lower
  Housing (Rent)
  Median Home Cost
  Utilities
  3.4% lower
  Commute
  46.1% lower
  Health
  16.4% higher
  Taxes
  Childcare
  Personal
  15.9% lower