2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Columbus, OH vs Des Moines, IA

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Highlights
Are people in Des Moines older or younger than people in Columbus?
- The Median Age in Des Moines is 1.7 years older than in Columbus.

Are housing costs cheaper in Des Moines or Columbus?
- Des Moines housing costs are 20.2% less expensive than Columbus housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Des Moines or Columbus?
- The average commute for residents of Des Moines is 2.8 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Columbus.

Things to do in Columbus?
Columbus, Ohio offers something for everyone. Whether you're looking for culture and art or outdoor recreation, there's plenty to explore in this vibrant city. Discover world-class museums like the COSI Science center, historical attractions like German Village or take a stroll through one of the many nearby parks. Sports fanatics can also enjoy some of the best sporting events in the Midwest at Nationwide Arena and Huntington Park. With its diverse offerings and plentiful amenities, Columbus is an ideal destination 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!

 Columbus, OHDes Moines, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock213,545329,725,481
 Median Income$58,575  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock34.238.4
 Avg. Home Price$220,100  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time21.58  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Columbus    156 Reviews

Ellenore · 
Over 2 years ago

I've lived here for my whole life! Awesome place to  More

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We lived in Columbus from 2014-2022, originally from Denver work has taken us to Charlotte, NC, Austin and Atlanta for perspective. One of our biggest reasons for  More

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Over 3 years ago

The city has nice areas and old/ugly areas that look like the remains of a civil war. The nice areas are pretty. Traffic isn't bad compared to Cali but the summer  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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