2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Des Moines, IA vs Washington, DC

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Highlights
Are people in Washington older or younger than people in Des Moines?
- The Median Age in Washington is 0.1 years older than in Des Moines.

Are housing costs cheaper in Washington or Des Moines?
- Washington housing costs are 267.0% more expensive than Des Moines housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Washington or Des Moines?
- The average commute for residents of Washington is 11.2 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 Washington?
Washington D.C. is a vibrant city full of history and culture. Visit the iconic landmarks like the White House, the Lincoln Memorial, or the Smithsonian Museums - all within walking distance of each other. Explore famous monuments such as The Washington Monument or take a tour of Capitol Hill and experience our nation's political history firsthand. With its dynamic nightlife scene, world-class restaurants, and abundance of art and cultural institutions, Washington D.C. has something to offer every kind of traveler!

 Des Moines, IAWashington, DCUnited States
 Population  Unlock683,154329,725,481
 Median Income$58,444  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock34.338.4
 Avg. Home Price$175,700  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock7.0%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 Washington    97 Reviews

Over 4 years ago

Living in DC long term brings on a kind of insidious misery. A long, slow, simmering down of any natural optimism or desire for a better future. It’s a leach of a town  More

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Over 5 years ago

Parts are beautiful but alot is rundown and ghetto. They always show the monuments and upper nw neighborhoods but never show hoods across the Anacostia River. Crime is  More

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Moved to DC 40 years ago from Mpls-St. Paul. DC is an amazing town. Downside is people are very competitive, everything is expensive. Great restaurants, foodie heaven  More

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