2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Fort Lauderdale, FL vs Des Moines, IA

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Highlights
Are people in Des Moines older or younger than people in Fort Lauderdale?
- The Median Age in Des Moines is 8.7 years younger than in Fort Lauderdale.

Are housing costs cheaper in Des Moines or Fort Lauderdale?
- Des Moines housing costs are 66.3% less expensive than Fort Lauderdale housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Des Moines or Fort Lauderdale?
- The average commute for residents of Des Moines is 7.6 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Fort Lauderdale.

Things to do in Fort Lauderdale?
Fort Lauderdale, Florida is an exciting destination, boasting beautiful beaches and plenty of attractions. Visitors can explore the Everglades National Park or take a boat ride through Intracoastal Waterway. There's something for everyone - from stunning art galleries and museums to trendy restaurants and nightlife spots. For those who prefer outdoors activities, there's always fishing, surfing, kayaking or paddle boarding nearby. With so much to do and see, Fort Lauderdale makes for an unforgettable experience!

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!

 Fort Lauderdale, FLDes Moines, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock213,545329,725,481
 Median Income$66,994  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock34.238.4
 Avg. Home Price$521,000  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time26.43  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Fort Lauderdale    64 Reviews

Fort Lauderdale and South Florida are eclectic, which makes for a tough adjustment if you're from a homogenous area. The secret is to find the location of all the things  More

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Like any city, Fort Lauderdale has it's good points and it's bad. On the good side you can't beat the weather here, especially October to June. No snow and no winter  More

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Over 10 years ago

My husband I are are from Illinois and Indiana. We moved here five years ago and we still HATE it! In the Midwest people are friendly and care about others. I can't  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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