2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Des Moines, IA vs Cedar Falls, IA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Cedar Falls older or younger than people in Des Moines?
- The Median Age in Cedar Falls is 6.2 years younger than in Des Moines.

Are housing costs cheaper in Cedar Falls or Des Moines?
- Cedar Falls housing costs are 28.6% more expensive than Des Moines housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Cedar Falls or Des Moines?
- The average commute for residents of Cedar Falls is 5.1 minutes shorter 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 Cedar Falls?
Cedar Falls Iowa is found in Black Hawk county offering tourists leisure areas such as George Wyth State park while also having employment opportunities at University of Northern Iowa along with entertainment opportunities at University Book & Supply Inc

 Des Moines, IACedar Falls, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock40,500329,725,481
 Median Income$58,444  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock2838.4
 Avg. Home Price$175,700  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock3.3%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 Cedar Falls    7 Reviews

Over 8 years ago

I lived in Cedar Falls while attending the University of Northern Iowa. It's a great college town. Main street is nice and there are plenty of restaurants to choose  More

   |    Reply

Over 12 years ago

We've lived in Cedar Falls since moving here from the great chicago land area in 2006. The school system in Cedar Falls and in Iowa in general if VERY strong.   More

   |    Reply

When I was preparing to moved to Cedar Falls, IA I was repeatedly met with the remark "IOWA!, what's there? corn?" But apart from the bitter winters, tornadoes, and  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Cedar Falls


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.