2025 Compare Cities Overview:
San Luis Obispo, CA vs Des Moines, IA

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Highlights
Are people in Des Moines older or younger than people in San Luis Obispo?
- The Median Age in Des Moines is 8.2 years older than in San Luis Obispo.

Are housing costs cheaper in Des Moines or San Luis Obispo?
- Des Moines housing costs are 81.2% less expensive than San Luis Obispo housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Des Moines or San Luis Obispo?
- The average commute for residents of Des Moines is 3.7 minutes longer than it is for residents of San Luis Obispo.

Things to do in San Luis Obispo?
San Luis Obispo, California is located on the Central Coast and offers stunning views of rolling hills and the Pacific Ocean. It's a great place to live with its temperate climate, excellent restaurants and unique shops. Every year locals flock to the famous Thursday night Farmer’s Market or to outdoor festivals like the SLO County Fair. For outdoor activities there are plenty of parks and trails plus beaches for surfing and swimming.

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!

 San Luis Obispo, CADes Moines, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock213,545329,725,481
 Median Income$61,862  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock34.238.4
 Avg. Home Price$932,400  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time15.16  Unlock26.38
Reviews for San Luis Obispo    21 Reviews

MY FIANCEE AND I ARE LOOKING TO MOVE TO SLO FOR RETIREMENT ( NEXT MONTH ) WE ARE BOTH ARTISTS AND HOPE OUR TALENT WILL HELP WITH COST OF LIVING IN SLO!!! ANY  More

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Over 10 years ago

In almost any season of the year in San Luis Obispo, you’ll find the sun shining and the temperature hitting around 70º at some point in the day. With the temperature  More

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San Luis Obispo and surrounding areas are beautiful, great weather, beaches, farms markets, a downtown area full of some of the best bars and restaurants, wine country,  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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