Madison, Wisconsin vs. Des Moines, Iowa

Cost of Living Comparison

The cost of living in Des Moines, Iowa is 22.4% cheaper than Madison, Wisconsin.

You would need a salary of $58,210 in Des Moines, Iowa to maintain the standard of living you have in Madison, Wisconsin.
Comparison highlights
• Overall, Des Moines, Iowa is cheaper than Madison, Wisconsin
• Median Home Cost is the biggest factor in the cost of living difference.
Median Home Cost
47% cheaper in Des Moines
than in Madison, Wisconsin
Madison, WI vs. Des Moines, IA
Compared to Madison, Des Moines is:
  Homeowner
      No Child Care, Taxes not Considered
  22.4% 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
  1.9% lower
  Housing (Homeowner)
  45.2% lower
  Housing (Rent)
  Median Home Cost
  Utilities
  16.7% lower
  Commute
  12.9% lower
  Health
  10.2% higher
  Taxes
  Childcare
  Personal
  13.8% lower