2025 Compare Cities Overview:
St. Paul, MN vs Des Moines, IA

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Highlights
Are people in Des Moines older or younger than people in St. Paul?
- The Median Age in Des Moines is 1.5 years older than in St. Paul.

Are housing costs cheaper in Des Moines or St. Paul?
- Des Moines housing costs are 34.5% less expensive than St. Paul housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Des Moines or St. Paul?
- The average commute for residents of Des Moines is 4.9 minutes shorter than it is for residents of St. Paul.

Things to do in St. Paul?
St. Paul, Minnesota is a beautiful city full of exciting attractions. Visitors can explore its historic downtown district, wander around the vibrant Rice Park, and shop at the chic Grand Avenue Mall. History buffs can learn more about the city’s past at the ‘Little Red House’ or visit Fort Snelling State Park. Nature lovers can head to High Bridge or take a guided boat tour down the Mississippi River. Culture enthusiasts will enjoy visiting museums such as Como Zoo & Conservatory or Science Museum of Minnesota for their unique displays and performances. After dark, there's plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from for a great night out. From historical sites to natural wonders, St. Paul has something for everyone!

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!

 St. Paul, MNDes Moines, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock213,545329,725,481
 Median Income$63,483  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock34.238.4
 Avg. Home Price$268,200  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time23.72  Unlock26.38
Reviews for St. Paul    24 Reviews

Over 7 years ago

St Paul is a nice city to live, especially for raising a family. I am a transplant, moving here 33 years ago at the age of 26. I am self employed in the remodeling  More

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Over 7 years ago

I have lived in Minnesota my whole life and I’m 50+. As you get older the humidity is unbearable and the mosquitoes seem to get bigger?! I can count on one hand how  More

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Over 8 years ago

The MPA community is the most at home I have ever felt.  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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