2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Mountain View, CA vs Des Moines, IA

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Highlights
Are people in Des Moines older or younger than people in Mountain View?
- The Median Age in Des Moines is 1.2 years younger than in Mountain View.

Are housing costs cheaper in Des Moines or Mountain View?
- Des Moines housing costs are 90.1% less expensive than Mountain View housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Des Moines or Mountain View?
- The average commute for residents of Des Moines is 4.2 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Mountain View.

Things to do in Mountain View?
Mountain View, California offers a unique mix between traditional landmarks such as Moffett's Hangar One or the NASA Ames Research Center for any aerospace aficionado combined with modern attractions such as Shoreline Amphitheater or GooglePlex.

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!

 Mountain View, CADes Moines, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock213,545329,725,481
 Median Income$158,104  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock34.238.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,773,700  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time23.01  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Mountain View    15 Reviews

Over 5 years ago

It’s  More

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I've lived here 25 years. Perfect climate. Very central for employment opportunities. Really great schools. 45 min to San Fran, 45 min to Santa Cruz beach. Shoreline  More

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Over 15 years ago

I was born and raised in Mountain View. I used to really like this city, and California. Unfortunately, the city (along with the state) has been over run with high  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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