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2024 Compare Cities Overview:
Des Moines, IA vs Madison, WI

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

Are housing costs cheaper in Madison or Des Moines?
- Madison housing costs are 92.1% more expensive than Des Moines housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Madison or Des Moines?
- The average commute for residents of Madison is 0.6 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 Madison?
Madison, Wisconsin is a vibrant city with a unique mix of culture and history. Take a stroll through State Street and explore the city's many art galleries, bookstores and some of the best restaurants in the Midwest. Visit University of Wisconsin-Madison for some stunning architecture and inspiring scientific research, or take in an outdoor concert at Breese Stevens Field. With its beautiful lakeshore backdrop, lively farmers markets, and incredible cultural events,Madison is an ideal place to live and visit!

 Des Moines, IAMadison, WIUnited States
 Population213,545265,447329,725,481
 Median Income$58,444$70,466$69,021
 Median Age34.231.538.4
 Avg. Home Price$175,700$337,500$338,100
 Unemployment Rate5.9%3.3%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time18.8319.4326.38

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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 4 years ago

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

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Over 5 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 Madison    78 Reviews

Unfortunately, a number of these reviews are politically based. Madison remains the only shining star in Wisconsin’s economy. The economy is broadly based, with  More

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Have been living in Madison for almost 3 years. It’s very safe, ppl generally friendly and for a town of its size it has fair number of good restaurants and interesting  More

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Lacks balance and zero accountability.   More

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Compare Des Moines, Iowa Cost of Living vs Madison, Wisconsin Cost of Living: Taxes, Childcare, Groceries, Health...
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ZIPS IN DES MOINES, IOWA
50317, 50315, 50310, 50320, 50313, 50316, 50312, 50311, 50314, 50321, 12 total
ZIPS IN MADISON, WISCONSIN
53711, 53704, 53719, 53703, 53705, 53713, 53716, 53714, 53715, 53718, 13 total

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