2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Des Moines, IA vs Birch Bay, WA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Birch Bay older or younger than people in Des Moines?
- The Median Age in Birch Bay is 12.7 years older than in Des Moines.

Are housing costs cheaper in Birch Bay or Des Moines?
- Birch Bay housing costs are 90.5% more expensive than Des Moines housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Birch Bay or Des Moines?
- The average commute for residents of Birch Bay is 7.1 minutes longer than it is for residents of Des Moines.

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!

Things to do in Birch Bay?
Birch Bay, WA is an unincorporated community that lies northwest from Bellingham along Chuckanut Drive off I-5 at the Canadian border near Semiahmoo Resort. People flock here for its sandy beaches picnic areas kayaking tourist outlets & seasonal farmers’ markets found only minutes away!

 Des Moines, IABirch Bay, WAUnited States
 Population  Unlock10,062329,725,481
 Median Income$58,444  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock46.938.4
 Avg. Home Price$175,700  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.7%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time18.83  Unlock26.38
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

   |    Reply

Dude · 
Over 5 years ago

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

   |    Reply

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

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Des Moines

Reviews for Birch Bay    3 Reviews

Over 12 years ago

over priced  More

   |    Reply

Over 12 years ago

Moderate weather year round. If you can deal with five months of gray and drizzle its a good place to  More

   |    Reply

Over 12 years ago

Birch Bay/Blaine,just might be the best kept secret in America. Never gets to hot, or cold. Small town next to the Canadian  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Birch Bay


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.