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

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Wausau older or younger than people in Des Moines?
- The Median Age in Wausau is 4.4 years older than in Des Moines.

Are housing costs cheaper in Wausau or Des Moines?
- Wausau housing costs are 0.5% less expensive than Des Moines housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Wausau or Des Moines?
- The average commute for residents of Wausau is 2.9 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 Wausau?
Wausau, Wisconsin lies within Marathon County giving people a variety of culture attractions ranging from Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum to Rib Mountain State Park combined with stores like Wausau Center and local food spots like Buffalo Wild Wings.

 Des Moines, IAWausau, WIUnited States
 Population  Unlock39,745329,725,481
 Median Income$58,444  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock38.638.4
 Avg. Home Price$175,700  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.6%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

   |    Reply

Dude · 
Over 5 years ago

This city is violent, there are too many gangs especially on the north  More

   |    Reply

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

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Des Moines

Reviews for Wausau    6 Reviews

Over 6 years ago

I visited Wausau during the summer and it was a very nice change from Phoenix. The people were friendly & helpful. It was a little humid than what I’m used to but  More

   |    Reply

Beautiful area geographically but beneath that beauty are some of the most overly conservative, unfriendly, judgemental people anywhere. Very hard to make friends here  More

   |    Reply

I LIVED IN WAUSAU WI OVER 23 YEARS AGO. I RELOCATED TO WYOMING IN 1990 FOR GOVERMENT POSITION. NOW RETIRED FROM FEDERAL SERVICE, I WILL BE MOVING BACK TO THE UPPER  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Wausau


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.