2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Des Moines, IA vs Fort Wayne, IN

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

Are housing costs cheaper in Fort Wayne or Des Moines?
- Fort Wayne housing costs are 12.1% more expensive than Des Moines housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Fort Wayne or Des Moines?
- The average commute for residents of Fort Wayne is 2.0 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 Fort Wayne?
Fort Wayne, Indiana is a charming city with plenty of entertainment options for its residents. Visit the famous Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory or take a break in one of the great parks such as Foster Park or Franke Park. Spend an evening at the Embassy Theatre or check out some classic films at Cinema Center. Head to downtown for shopping and dining - there are plenty of local gems like Debrand Fine Chocolates, Pembroke Bakery or The Dash-In Restaurant. With its great schools and laid back atmosphere, it's easy to see why people love to call Fort Wayne home!

 Des Moines, IAFort Wayne, INUnited States
 Population  Unlock262,676329,725,481
 Median Income$58,444  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock35.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$175,700  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.1%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

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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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Reviews for Fort Wayne    43 Reviews

Over 2 years ago

Fort Wayne is what America used to be. Hardworking, unpretentious, welcoming. There are problems, like anywhere, including crime on the east side, but nothing like  More

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Over 6 years ago

Moved here from Buffalo, NY. Ft Wayne is a big city with lots of greenery and things to do. It is not congested and cost of living is cheap. One complain-drivers with  More

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I lived in Fort Wayne from 1962 until 1988 then moved north. Fort Wayne was a nice city at one time. It's sad to say, but today, it's become to highly populated with  More

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