2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Rochester, MN vs West Des Moines, IA

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Highlights
Are people in West Des Moines older or younger than people in Rochester?
- The Median Age in West Des Moines is 0.0 years older than in Rochester.

Are housing costs cheaper in West Des Moines or Rochester?
- West Des Moines housing costs are 3.3% less expensive than Rochester housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, West Des Moines or Rochester?
- The average commute for residents of West Des Moines is 1.0 minutes longer than it is for residents of Rochester.

Things to do in Rochester?
Rochester, Minnesota is a vibrant city located in the heart of the Midwest. Home to the renowned Mayo Clinic and University of Minnesota-Rochester, this city offers plenty to explore. From its variety of shopping options to its multitude of museums and cultural attractions, visitors can experience something unique. Visitors can also take advantage of the area's parks and trails for a breath of fresh air and connect with nature. Whether you're looking for an educational experience or a leisurely weekend getaway, Rochester has something for everyone!

Things to do in West Des Moines?
West Des Moines, Iowa is a vibrant city located in the greater Des Moines area. This lively town offers an array of exciting attractions for visitors to explore such as the beautiful Living History Farms or the thrilling Adventureland Amusement Park. Residents here also enjoy plenty of outdoor activities at Raccoon River or Water Works Park. With its excellent school systems, thriving businesses, and wide range of recreational activities, it's no wonder why so many people choose to make West Des Moines their home.

 Rochester, MNWest Des Moines, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock67,640329,725,481
 Median Income$79,159  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock36.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$291,900  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock3.3%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time16.15  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Rochester    31 Reviews

Roch (and Minnesota) is a great place IF you live off the govt dole; subsidize undesirable things (through generous welfare benefits, lax law enforcement and sentences,  More

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Rochester is very vanilla. As a progressive, this place is not good. The area leans conservative and you'll see Trump signs everywhere... so that tells you the type of  More

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Over 5 years ago

I moved here over 20 years ago from California and I was in shock for the first couple of years that people actually lived in such a cold climate! Winter starts around  More

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Reviews for West Des Moines    4 Reviews

Over 16 years ago

I just moved here from out-of-state a few months ago and have been pleasantly surprised by the broad range of activities and amenities available in this medium sized IA  More

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Over 16 years ago

Am contemplating a move to WDM from the East Coast (NYC). Might there be anyone out there that may have experienced this and could offer guidance or comment. Thanks.   More

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We just moved to West Des Moines and we love it here! We moved here three months ago and every weekend we have been able to do something different and fun. There is  More

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