2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Fargo, ND vs Des Moines, IA

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Highlights
Are people in Des Moines older or younger than people in Fargo?
- The Median Age in Des Moines is 2.7 years older than in Fargo.

Are housing costs cheaper in Des Moines or Fargo?
- Des Moines housing costs are 37.1% less expensive than Fargo housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Des Moines or Fargo?
- The average commute for residents of Des Moines is 3.8 minutes longer than it is for residents of Fargo.

Things to do in Fargo?
Fargo, North Dakota is a vibrant city in the Red River Valley. It offers many recreational activities including golfing at the Edgewood Golf Course, exploring the Fargo-Moorhead area by bike or foot on the area's beautiful trails, and watching ice hockey games at Scheels Arena. Arts and culture lovers can take in performances from local theater groups such as Spokane Civic Theatre or attend events like the annual Fargo-Moorhead Jazz Festival. There are plenty of shopping and dining options ranging from great farmers markets to high-end steakhouses. Whether you’re looking for a place to call home or just some entertainment, Fargo won't disappoint!

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!

 Fargo, NDDes Moines, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock213,545329,725,481
 Median Income$60,243  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock34.238.4
 Avg. Home Price$279,500  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time15.02  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Fargo    32 Reviews

Over 4 years ago

Grew up in Fargo/Northern MN area and was there 29 years. It’s cheap to live, tons of things to do in the summer. But 3-6 months of the year you more than likely will  More

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Tyrel · 

Grew up in south Minneapolis and headed 3 hours west to Fargo. Why did I want to leave the Twin Cities area? Found a great job. Nicer apartment for less money. Nice  More

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Not your typical North Dakota town. Fargo is on the Minnesota border and Cass County makes up 1/4 of the entire states population. It is the urban center and much more  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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