2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Des Moines, IA vs Portales, NM

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Highlights
Are people in Portales older or younger than people in Des Moines?
- The Median Age in Portales is 7.1 years younger than in Des Moines.

Are housing costs cheaper in Portales or Des Moines?
- Portales housing costs are 28.9% less expensive than Des Moines housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Portales or Des Moines?
- The average commute for residents of Portales is 2.1 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 Portales?
Portales, New Mexico is a small town located in Roosevelt County. It is known for its mild climate, friendly community and vibrant culture. Portales has two universities and several public schools, making it an ideal place to raise a family. Local amenities include various shopping options, restaurants and entertainment venues, as well as recreational activities such as the Portales Municipal Swimming Pool and Portales Golf Course. With its tranquil atmosphere and access to nearby cities such as Clovis and Alamogordo, Portales is a great place to call home.

 Des Moines, IAPortales, NMUnited States
 Population  Unlock12,151329,725,481
 Median Income$58,444  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock27.138.4
 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

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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 Portales    10 Reviews

In a single sentence, this is a town that is slowly dying in the desert- and nobody here cares. Why- because the people who run this town were born in the 1940's or  More

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Over 6 years ago

I love portales new.Mexico they have nice people I like boys cute boys that the high school  More

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If you like boring, low wages, and high unemployment for mediocre jobs, and ultra-conservatism then this is the place for you.  More

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