2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Des Moines, IA vs Waukesha, WI

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Highlights
Are people in Waukesha older or younger than people in Des Moines?
- The Median Age in Waukesha is 1.8 years older than in Des Moines.

Are housing costs cheaper in Waukesha or Des Moines?
- Waukesha housing costs are 62.9% more expensive than Des Moines housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Waukesha or Des Moines?
- The average commute for residents of Waukesha is 3.4 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 Waukesha?
Waukesha, Wisconsin is a vibrant city located in the Midwest United States. Home to attractions such as Fox River Park and Frame Park visitors can enjoy outdoor activities and nature when visiting Waukesha. There are also plenty of museums, galleries, and performance venues such as the Carroll University Center for the Arts and the Waukesha Civic Theatre. For entertainment, visitors can explore downtown shopping districts and restaurants along with movie theaters and live music clubs. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an exciting night out, Waukesha has something for everyone!

 Des Moines, IAWaukesha, WIUnited States
 Population  Unlock71,307329,725,481
 Median Income$58,444  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock3638.4
 Avg. Home Price$175,700  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.3%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 Waukesha    7 Reviews

I lived in waukesha for 37 years. It's home, it's where I grew up but it's a bit of a dump. They're trying hard to make it nice but its just not that great of a place to  More

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Over 12 years ago

I lived in Waukesha in 2006 while on a contract position for a precast design company. I found Waukesha to be a very enjoyable place to live. It is a very place to live  More

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Over 16 years ago

Waukesha is a small city, 65K population, with the amenities of a larger town. Its access to library, daily shopping, mainline restaurant fare and outside activity is  More

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