2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Carlsbad, NM vs Des Moines, IA

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Highlights
Are people in Des Moines older or younger than people in Carlsbad?
- The Median Age in Des Moines is 0.9 years younger than in Carlsbad.

Are housing costs cheaper in Des Moines or Carlsbad?
- Des Moines housing costs are 4.4% less expensive than Carlsbad housing costs.

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

Things to do in Carlsbad?
Carlsbad is a city located in southeastern New Mexico that is known for its stunning landscape of caves, limestone cliffs and deserts dotted with cacti. It is home to Carlsbad Caverns National Park which contains over 100 limestone caves filled with unique formations that attract nature-lovers from across the globe. There are also several recreational activities available like rock climbing and ATV tours along with various art galleries featuring local history exhibits to explore!

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!

 Carlsbad, NMDes Moines, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock213,545329,725,481
 Median Income$70,745  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock34.238.4
 Avg. Home Price$183,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time18.25  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Carlsbad    16 Reviews

I've only been here for a few months, but I can quickly sum up this town as a rundown truck stop, perpetually buffeted by relentless wind, dirt, and hot air. The gas  More

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Over 3 years ago

We used to visit here every few years from Michigan just to see the Living Desert State Park. A very long way to drive to spend a a couple of days in this hauntingly  More

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Been here 9 years. Very difficult place. Price gouging, extremely expensive to live here. Crazy amounts of crime, cops do nothing. Very crowded, bad traffic and crazy  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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