2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Appleton, WI vs Des Moines, IA

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Highlights
Are people in Des Moines older or younger than people in Appleton?
- The Median Age in Des Moines is 2.3 years younger than in Appleton.

Are housing costs cheaper in Des Moines or Appleton?
- Des Moines housing costs are 21.1% less expensive than Appleton housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Des Moines or Appleton?
- The average commute for residents of Des Moines is 0.6 minutes longer than it is for residents of Appleton.

Things to do in Appleton?
Appleton, Wisconsin is a vibrant city located in the Northeastern region of the United States. Home to attractions such as History Museum at the Castle and Hearthstone Historic House Museum, visitors can explore outdoor activities and historical sites when visiting Appleton. There are also plenty of museums, galleries, and performance venues such as the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center and Heid Music Hall. For entertainment, visitors can explore boutique shops and restaurants along with movie theaters and live music clubs. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an exciting night out, Appleton has something for everyone!

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!

 Appleton, WIDes Moines, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock213,545329,725,481
 Median Income$68,364  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock34.238.4
 Avg. Home Price$222,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time18.26  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Appleton    23 Reviews

Just to clarify my earlier review, the people are generally unfriendly, except the overweight women( 90% of women here) are friendly. Tailgatings on 1-41 an 441 is very  More

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Over 7 years ago

Women here are very heavy. People are rude here, will cut you off in public and not say a word. People at the gym walk in and do not even look at you, even though you  More

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Over 8 years ago

Something is happening in Appleton. The place used to be called the shopping capital of Wisco. But, slowly this rather commercial-sounding moniker is being replaced by  More

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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 5 years ago

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

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Over 6 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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