2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Oskaloosa, IA vs Des Moines, IA

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Highlights
Are people in Des Moines older or younger than people in Oskaloosa?
- The Median Age in Des Moines is 1.0 years younger than in Oskaloosa.

Are housing costs cheaper in Des Moines or Oskaloosa?
- Des Moines housing costs are 23.7% more expensive than Oskaloosa housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Des Moines or Oskaloosa?
- The average commute for residents of Des Moines is 1.7 minutes longer than it is for residents of Oskaloosa.

Things to do in Oskaloosa?
Oskaloosa, Iowa is located in Mahaska County and is known for its small-town charm and friendly atmosphere. The town offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities with its parks, trails, and nearby lakes. Oskaloosa also has a thriving downtown with great shopping, dining, and entertainment options. With its easy access to major highways and close proximity to Des Moines and other cities, Oskaloosa is an excellent place to live or visit.

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!

 Oskaloosa, IADes Moines, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock213,545329,725,481
 Median Income$54,216  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock34.238.4
 Avg. Home Price$142,000  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time17.13  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Oskaloosa    2 Reviews

Over 11 years ago

Iowa's weather is extremely unpredictable, but that's just the way it is. I personally hate snow and cold, so I'm not a fan of Iowa winters, but spring and summer are  More

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Over 15 years ago

Website lists the population @ 14,956 w/ a decrease of -.56 since 2000. I show the 2000 population as 11,066.Something is  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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