2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Novato, CA vs Des Moines, IA

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Highlights
Are people in Des Moines older or younger than people in Novato?
- The Median Age in Des Moines is 13.9 years younger than in Novato.

Are housing costs cheaper in Des Moines or Novato?
- Des Moines housing costs are 83.3% less expensive than Novato housing costs.

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

Things to do in Novato?
Novato, California is located in Marin County, just north of San Francisco. Novato is home to nearly 56,000 people and offers a mix of rural and urban attractions. Residents enjoy outdoor activities such as Mt. Burdell Open Space Preserve and the Novato Arts Center for its art galleries, plays, and music events. Novato also boasts several shopping destinations in addition to top-notch schools, hospitals and services. With its combination of small-town charm, big-city amenities and access to pristine natural beauty, Novato provides an excellent place to call 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!

 Novato, CADes Moines, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock213,545329,725,481
 Median Income$107,975  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock34.238.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,052,000  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time32.59  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Novato    9 Reviews

Lush hills, hiking trails, and easy access to both wine country and San Francisco. We love it here.  More

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Over 10 years ago

Novato is a family oriented community located about 20 miles north of the Golden Gate bridge. The quality of life is excellent here assuming your job pays you enough to  More

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Over 11 years ago

We recently moved to a secluded neighborhood in Novato after 25 years in central Marin. While there are fewer restaurants and galleries, we are very pleased with our  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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