2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Fairbanks, AK vs Des Moines, IA

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Highlights
Are people in Des Moines older or younger than people in Fairbanks?
- The Median Age in Des Moines is 6.0 years older than in Fairbanks.

Are housing costs cheaper in Des Moines or Fairbanks?
- Des Moines housing costs are 36.2% less expensive than Fairbanks housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Des Moines or Fairbanks?
- The average commute for residents of Des Moines is 5.9 minutes longer than it is for residents of Fairbanks.

Things to do in Fairbanks?
Fairbanks AK rests close Arctic Circle famed principally for its natural sites such as Chena River State Recreation Area where visitors may take part in different water sports or simply enjoy some peace & tranquility while walking along sandy beaches!

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!

 Fairbanks, AKDes Moines, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock213,545329,725,481
 Median Income$66,572  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock34.238.4
 Avg. Home Price$275,600  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time12.94  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Fairbanks    20 Reviews

I have lived in the Fairbanks area for about 25 years and have become very comfortable with the community and the lifestyle here. That said, retirement is fast  More

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Over 14 years ago

Comments about Fairbanks, both positive and negative, are of interest to me. Was in Fairbanks this past March [and north on Cleary Summit] and fell in love with the  More

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Over 15 years ago

I came to Alaska 15 years ago on an adventure and first lived in Juneau, which I LOVED and then moved to Eagle River, which I loved and now live in Fairbanks! I do not  More

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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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