2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Owatonna, MN vs Des Moines, IA

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Highlights
Are people in Des Moines older or younger than people in Owatonna?
- The Median Age in Des Moines is 5.3 years younger than in Owatonna.

Are housing costs cheaper in Des Moines or Owatonna?
- Des Moines housing costs are 27.9% less expensive than Owatonna housing costs.

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

Things to do in Owatonna?
Owatonna, Minnesota is a thriving city located in Steele County and renowned for its vibrant cultural scene, lush parks, and small-town charm. It offers plenty of activities for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy, from biking along the Straight River Trail to fishing on Lake Owatonna. Visitors can also explore local attractions such as the Owatonna Arts Center or shop at nearby malls such as The Medford Outlet Center. With easy access to Minnesota's Twin Cities metropolitan area and other major cities like Rochester and Albert Lea, Owatonna makes an ideal destination for visitors seeking an unforgettable experience close to urban amenities.

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!

 Owatonna, MNDes Moines, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock213,545329,725,481
 Median Income$71,450  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock34.238.4
 Avg. Home Price$243,700  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time17.14  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Owatonna    1 Reviews

OWATONNA, WITH A POPULATION OF LESS THAN 30,000, SITS RIGHT ON US INTERSTATE 35... ONLY 45 MINUTES TO MAYO CLINIC, 45 MINUTES TO MSP/ST PAUL INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT!   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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