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

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Highlights
Are people in West Des Moines older or younger than people in Appleton?
- The Median Age in West Des Moines is 0.4 years younger than in Appleton.

Are housing costs cheaper in West Des Moines or Appleton?
- West Des Moines housing costs are 26.7% more expensive than Appleton housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, West Des Moines or Appleton?
- The average commute for residents of West Des Moines is 1.1 minutes shorter 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 West Des Moines?
West Des Moines, Iowa is a vibrant city located in the greater Des Moines area. This lively town offers an array of exciting attractions for visitors to explore such as the beautiful Living History Farms or the thrilling Adventureland Amusement Park. Residents here also enjoy plenty of outdoor activities at Raccoon River or Water Works Park. With its excellent school systems, thriving businesses, and wide range of recreational activities, it's no wonder why so many people choose to make West Des Moines their home.

 Appleton, WIWest Des Moines, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock67,640329,725,481
 Median Income$68,364  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock36.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$222,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock3.3%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 West Des Moines    4 Reviews

Over 16 years ago

I just moved here from out-of-state a few months ago and have been pleasantly surprised by the broad range of activities and amenities available in this medium sized IA  More

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Over 16 years ago

Am contemplating a move to WDM from the East Coast (NYC). Might there be anyone out there that may have experienced this and could offer guidance or comment. Thanks.   More

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We just moved to West Des Moines and we love it here! We moved here three months ago and every weekend we have been able to do something different and fun. There is  More

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