2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Lafayette, IN vs Des Moines, IA

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Highlights
Are people in Des Moines older or younger than people in Lafayette?
- The Median Age in Des Moines is 1.7 years older than in Lafayette.

Are housing costs cheaper in Des Moines or Lafayette?
- Des Moines housing costs are 11.5% less expensive than Lafayette housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Des Moines or Lafayette?
- The average commute for residents of Des Moines is 2.2 minutes longer than it is for residents of Lafayette.

Things to do in Lafayette?
Lafayette, Indiana is a vibrant city located in the Midwest United States. Home to attractions such as Art Museum of Greater Lafayette and Columbian Park Zoo visitors can enjoy outdoor activities and nature when visiting Lafayette. There are also plenty of museums, galleries, and performance venues such as Long Center for the Performing Arts and Purdue Convocations. For entertainment, visitors can explore downtown shopping districts and restaurants along with movie theaters and live music clubs. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an exciting night out, Lafayette has something for everyone!

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!

 Lafayette, INDes Moines, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock213,545329,725,481
 Median Income$47,690  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock34.238.4
 Avg. Home Price$198,500  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time16.67  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Lafayette    16 Reviews

Over 12 years ago

I have lived here for 12 years and in a smaller town 20 miles away for over 35 years and like the people. But crime is on the rise, more arrests lately related to people  More

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Over 13 years ago

Lafayette still has a small town atmosphere. It is a wonderful place to raise children. There is a strong sense of community. Unfotunately in recent years Lafayette has  More

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I can say I have lived in Lafayette Indiana for 25 years. I'll say that home is home...but I would honestly say in less your a college student at Purdue, I would never  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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