2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Des Moines, IA vs Yelm, WA

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Highlights
Are people in Yelm older or younger than people in Des Moines?
- The Median Age in Yelm is 2.9 years younger than in Des Moines.

Are housing costs cheaper in Yelm or Des Moines?
- Yelm housing costs are 152.2% more expensive than Des Moines housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Yelm or Des Moines?
- The average commute for residents of Yelm is 14.1 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 Yelm?
Yelm, WA is a vibrant small town in the heart of rural Pacific Northwest. With easy access to outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and more, Yelm offers a great balance between city life and nature. The downtown area consists of quaint shops and restaurants that give it a distinct charm. Residents of Yelm enjoy the diverse population which includes many different cultures, backgrounds and perspectives. However, due to the small size of the town there is a strong sense of community and residents look out for one another. The schools in Yelm provide excellent education opportunities for all students. Overall, living in Yelm is an enjoyable experience with lots of great people and plenty of natural beauty surrounding it!

 Des Moines, IAYelm, WAUnited States
 Population  Unlock10,205329,725,481
 Median Income$58,444  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock31.338.4
 Avg. Home Price$175,700  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.9%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 Yelm    2 Reviews

Over 16 years ago

Yelm is a very nice city to live in. Small enough to have that small town flavor but big enough not to be cramped. Has access to pretty much everywhere you want to go.  More

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I've lived in Yelm 2 years now and LOVE IT! We moved here to get away of the crazyness and extreamly crampedness of the "suburbia"of Puyallup which is just outside of  More

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