2025 Compare Cities Overview:
State College, PA vs Des Moines, IA

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Highlights
Are people in Des Moines older or younger than people in State College?
- The Median Age in Des Moines is 12.7 years older than in State College.

Are housing costs cheaper in Des Moines or State College?
- Des Moines housing costs are 50.6% less expensive than State College housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Des Moines or State College?
- The average commute for residents of Des Moines is 2.5 minutes longer than it is for residents of State College.

Things to do in State College?
State College, Pennsylvania sits within Centre county featuring numerous parks combined with stores like Nittany Mall while also having local restaurants like Big Bowl Noodle House.

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!

 State College, PADes Moines, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock213,545329,725,481
 Median Income$43,015  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock34.238.4
 Avg. Home Price$355,500  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time16.37  Unlock26.38
Reviews for State College    27 Reviews

I relocated to State College about 30 years ago. We hadn’t planned to stay this long, but life here is “easy”. Outdoor activities are ample. There are many beautiful  More

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State College is a small "safe" town, you will always see friends, coworkers, physicians, mechanics, supervisors...at the doctor's office, in the store, near your home,  More

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Over 15 years ago

I lived in State College, PA all my life untill 2006 when we finally moved south where it was warmer. State College itself is a fun place to be when it comes to football  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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