2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Highland Park, IL vs West Des Moines, IA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in West Des Moines older or younger than people in Highland Park?
- The Median Age in West Des Moines is 12.3 years younger than in Highland Park.

Are housing costs cheaper in West Des Moines or Highland Park?
- West Des Moines housing costs are 54.0% less expensive than Highland Park housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, West Des Moines or Highland Park?
- The average commute for residents of West Des Moines is 13.8 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Highland Park.

Things to do in Highland Park?
Highland Park, IL is situated north of Chicago on Lake Michigan’s shores while surrounded by lush green woods full of wildlife that visitors can observe thanks to numerous dedicated nature preserves along cutting across the surrounding area.

Things to do in West Des Moines?
West Des Moines, Iowa is a vibrant city located in the greater Des Moines area. This lively town offers an array of exciting attractions for visitors to explore such as the beautiful Living History Farms or the thrilling Adventureland Amusement Park. Residents here also enjoy plenty of outdoor activities at Raccoon River or Water Works Park. With its excellent school systems, thriving businesses, and wide range of recreational activities, it's no wonder why so many people choose to make West Des Moines their home.

 Highland Park, ILWest Des Moines, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock67,640329,725,481
 Median Income$153,226  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock36.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$613,300  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock3.3%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time31  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Highland Park    3 Reviews

You can sail on Lake Michigan, and your culture differences are welcomed. look up "North Shore Yacht Club" for sailing and kayaking  More

   |    Reply

Highland Park (and the village of Highwood, which it surrounds) is a great place to live, offering a unique combination of benefits. First, it is on the shore of Lake  More

   |    Reply

Over 19 years ago

A wonderful place to rasie a family, but quite expensive. Great schools, but the "wealth culture" of this tony Chicago suburb causes a lot of anxiety among the kids.   More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Highland Park

Reviews for West Des Moines    4 Reviews

Over 16 years ago

I just moved here from out-of-state a few months ago and have been pleasantly surprised by the broad range of activities and amenities available in this medium sized IA  More

   |    Reply

Over 16 years ago

Am contemplating a move to WDM from the East Coast (NYC). Might there be anyone out there that may have experienced this and could offer guidance or comment. Thanks.   More

   |    Reply

We just moved to West Des Moines and we love it here! We moved here three months ago and every weekend we have been able to do something different and fun. There is  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of West Des Moines


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.