2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Des Moines, IA vs Spirit Lake, IA

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Highlights
Are people in Spirit Lake older or younger than people in Des Moines?
- The Median Age in Spirit Lake is 6.9 years older than in Des Moines.

Are housing costs cheaper in Spirit Lake or Des Moines?
- Spirit Lake housing costs are 57.0% more expensive than Des Moines housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Spirit Lake or Des Moines?
- The average commute for residents of Spirit Lake is 3.1 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 Spirit Lake?
Living in Spirit Lake, IA is a unique experience that many people enjoy. The small town atmosphere and rural setting provide a peaceful and tranquil environment, where everyone knows each other and looks out for one another. The scenery is breathtaking, with the beautiful lakes, rolling hills, and lush green fields creating an idyllic natural backdrop that can't be experienced anywhere else. Residents can take advantage of all the outdoor activities the area has to offer such as fishing, boating, swimming, skiing, ATV riding and more. There are numerous small businesses in town providing goods and services to locals. Overall, Spirit Lake is a great place to call home offering a safe and friendly environment for families to grow together in nature's beauty.

 Des Moines, IASpirit Lake, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock5,301329,725,481
 Median Income$58,444  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock41.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$175,700  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.9%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 Spirit Lake    1 Reviews

Over 18 years ago

We moved from a medium sized city in the West (about 100,000) to Spirit Lake a few years ago. Although it took a little while to get used to living in a small town  More

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