2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Des Moines, IA vs Virginia Beach, VA

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Highlights
Are people in Virginia Beach older or younger than people in Des Moines?
- The Median Age in Virginia Beach is 2.5 years older than in Des Moines.

Are housing costs cheaper in Virginia Beach or Des Moines?
- Virginia Beach housing costs are 111.0% more expensive than Des Moines housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Virginia Beach or Des Moines?
- The average commute for residents of Virginia Beach is 4.9 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 Virginia Beach?
Virginia Beach, Virginia is a popular summer destination for beachgoers and sun seekers alike. Boasting gorgeous beaches, fantastic boardwalks, and lively nightlife, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant coastal city. Visitors can enjoy the great outdoors with kayaking, paddle boarding or fishing. Or they can explore the many cultural attractions like the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art and The Cavalier Hotel. With its beautiful beaches, stunning views and tons of activities to keep you busy all day long, Virginia Beach is sure to make your next vacation one to remember!

 Des Moines, IAVirginia Beach, VAUnited States
 Population  Unlock457,658329,725,481
 Median Income$58,444  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock36.738.4
 Avg. Home Price$175,700  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.8%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 Virginia Beach    95 Reviews

Over 4 years ago

If you lived here prior to 2005, your experience in Virginia Beach is likely between good and wonderful. There are still pros to living here. Other reviews have  More

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Over 6 years ago

I lived in the Hampton Roads area for 11 years while I was in the Navy. It was a bit of a culture shock, since I grew up in a small rural town in Maine with 900 people.  More

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Over 7 years ago

I lived in the Kempsville area of VB growing up and loved it. There's no way to be bored when you have so many public and neighborhood parks, libraries, events,  More

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