Des Moines, Iowa vs. Merced, California

Cost of Living Comparison

The cost of living in Merced, California is 34.4% more expensive than Des Moines, Iowa.

You would need a salary of $100,826 in Merced, California to maintain the standard of living you have in Des Moines, Iowa.
Comparison highlights
• Overall, Merced, California is more expensive than Des Moines, Iowa
• Median Home Cost is the biggest factor in the cost of living difference.
Median Home Cost
112% more expensive in Merced
than in Des Moines, Iowa
Des Moines, IA vs. Merced, CA
Compared to Des Moines, Merced is:
  Homeowner
      No Child Care, Taxes not Considered
  34.4% higher
      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
  3.6% higher
  Housing (Homeowner)
  83.9% higher
  Housing (Rent)
  Median Home Cost
  Utilities
  23.1% higher
  Commute
  35.3% higher
  Health
  18.5% higher
  Taxes
  Childcare
  Personal
  7.1% higher