2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Fort Wayne, IN vs Des Moines, IA

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Highlights
Are people in Des Moines older or younger than people in Fort Wayne?
- The Median Age in Des Moines is 0.9 years younger than in Fort Wayne.

Are housing costs cheaper in Des Moines or Fort Wayne?
- Des Moines housing costs are 10.8% less expensive than Fort Wayne housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Des Moines or Fort Wayne?
- The average commute for residents of Des Moines is 2.0 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Fort Wayne.

Things to do in Fort Wayne?
Fort Wayne, Indiana is a charming city with plenty of entertainment options for its residents. Visit the famous Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory or take a break in one of the great parks such as Foster Park or Franke Park. Spend an evening at the Embassy Theatre or check out some classic films at Cinema Center. Head to downtown for shopping and dining - there are plenty of local gems like Debrand Fine Chocolates, Pembroke Bakery or The Dash-In Restaurant. With its great schools and laid back atmosphere, it's easy to see why people love to call Fort Wayne home!

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 Wayne, INDes Moines, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock213,545329,725,481
 Median Income$53,978  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock34.238.4
 Avg. Home Price$196,900  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time20.86  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Fort Wayne    43 Reviews

Over 2 years ago

Fort Wayne is what America used to be. Hardworking, unpretentious, welcoming. There are problems, like anywhere, including crime on the east side, but nothing like  More

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Over 6 years ago

Moved here from Buffalo, NY. Ft Wayne is a big city with lots of greenery and things to do. It is not congested and cost of living is cheap. One complain-drivers with  More

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I lived in Fort Wayne from 1962 until 1988 then moved north. Fort Wayne was a nice city at one time. It's sad to say, but today, it's become to highly populated with  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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