2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Bay City, MI vs Des Moines, IA

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Highlights
Are people in Des Moines older or younger than people in Bay City?
- The Median Age in Des Moines is 4.8 years younger than in Bay City.

Are housing costs cheaper in Des Moines or Bay City?
- Des Moines housing costs are 89.7% more expensive than Bay City housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Des Moines or Bay City?
- The average commute for residents of Des Moines is 1.0 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Bay City.

Things to do in Bay City?
Bay City MI rests near Saginaw Valley known mostly for its historic riverfront district packed with shops & restaurants alongside several Victorian style houses giving visitors an authentic glimpse into Michigan’s past.

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!

 Bay City, MIDes Moines, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock213,545329,725,481
 Median Income$41,959  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock34.238.4
 Avg. Home Price$92,600  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time19.86  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Bay City    7 Reviews

Bay City offers low prices for homes due to lower population (Current lower demand). Years ago, the population was more than 3x as big due to big lumber industry, etc.  More

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But everything else is going to  More

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There are many pros to Bay City, it is incredibly cheap to live in and most everything is very affordable. The problem is that the economy is terrible and there aren't  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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