2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Des Moines, IA vs Fargo, ND

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Fargo older or younger than people in Des Moines?
- The Median Age in Fargo is 2.7 years younger than in Des Moines.

Are housing costs cheaper in Fargo or Des Moines?
- Fargo housing costs are 59.1% more expensive than Des Moines housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Fargo or Des Moines?
- The average commute for residents of Fargo is 3.8 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 Fargo?
Fargo, North Dakota is a vibrant city in the Red River Valley. It offers many recreational activities including golfing at the Edgewood Golf Course, exploring the Fargo-Moorhead area by bike or foot on the area's beautiful trails, and watching ice hockey games at Scheels Arena. Arts and culture lovers can take in performances from local theater groups such as Spokane Civic Theatre or attend events like the annual Fargo-Moorhead Jazz Festival. There are plenty of shopping and dining options ranging from great farmers markets to high-end steakhouses. Whether you’re looking for a place to call home or just some entertainment, Fargo won't disappoint!

 Des Moines, IAFargo, NDUnited States
 Population  Unlock124,979329,725,481
 Median Income$58,444  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock31.538.4
 Avg. Home Price$175,700  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock3.6%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 Fargo    32 Reviews

Over 4 years ago

Grew up in Fargo/Northern MN area and was there 29 years. It’s cheap to live, tons of things to do in the summer. But 3-6 months of the year you more than likely will  More

   |    Reply

Tyrel · 

Grew up in south Minneapolis and headed 3 hours west to Fargo. Why did I want to leave the Twin Cities area? Found a great job. Nicer apartment for less money. Nice  More

   |    Reply

Not your typical North Dakota town. Fargo is on the Minnesota border and Cass County makes up 1/4 of the entire states population. It is the urban center and much more  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Fargo


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.