2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Des Moines, IA vs Grass Valley, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Grass Valley older or younger than people in Des Moines?
- The Median Age in Grass Valley is 12.8 years older than in Des Moines.

Are housing costs cheaper in Grass Valley or Des Moines?
- Grass Valley housing costs are 183.1% more expensive than Des Moines housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Grass Valley or Des Moines?
- The average commute for residents of Grass Valley is 3.9 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 Grass Valley?
Grass Valley is an independent township situated within Nevada County, California boasting plenty of activities like visiting its local museums like the Lake Spaulding Powerhouse suitable for anyone interested in the area's history plus nearby Empire Mine State Historic Park has various events and exhibits conveniently situated close by. There are also lots of shopping outlets and eateries providing unique items or delicious cuisine good for anyone looking to browse around or have a meal out during their visit here!

 Des Moines, IAGrass Valley, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock13,550329,725,481
 Median Income$58,444  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock4738.4
 Avg. Home Price$175,700  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.1%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

   |    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 Grass Valley    15 Reviews

I've lived many places in California. I've now lived in Grass Valley for 2 years. Grass Valley and it's sister Nevada City are adorable little towns full of history and  More

   |    Reply

Grass valley has become a sad place to live. I was born and raised here and can no longer afford to raise my small family here. Look up the median annual wage and the  More

   |    Reply

I'm 25 years old and I've lived in this town all of my life, and I'm saving every single dollar I make to leave here and never come back. It's a shame, because at one  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Grass Valley


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.