2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Walnut Creek, CA vs Des Moines, IA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Des Moines older or younger than people in Walnut Creek?
- The Median Age in Des Moines is 13.6 years younger than in Walnut Creek.

Are housing costs cheaper in Des Moines or Walnut Creek?
- Des Moines housing costs are 82.9% less expensive than Walnut Creek housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Des Moines or Walnut Creek?
- The average commute for residents of Des Moines is 14.8 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Walnut Creek.

Things to do in Walnut Creek?
Walnut Creek, California is a vibrant city located in the northern region of the United States. Home to attractions such as Mount Diablo State Park and Ruth Bancroft Garden, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities and nature when visiting Walnut Creek. There are also plenty of museums, galleries, shops, restaurants and performance venues such as Lesher Centre for the Arts and Contra Costa Musical Theatre. For entertainment, visitors can explore downtown shopping districts along with movie theaters and live music clubs. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an exciting night out, Walnut Creek 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!

 Walnut Creek, CADes Moines, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock213,545329,725,481
 Median Income$121,205  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock34.238.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,025,000  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time33.59  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Walnut Creek    16 Reviews

Apart from the congestion, Walnut Creek is one of the best places in the San Francisco Bay Area to live. It is one of the most compact/walkable cities in the entire area  More

   |    Reply

Over 7 years ago

Almost all of Walnut Creek water comes from Pardee dam through an enclosed pipeline. That water is direct from the high Sierras. Among the best water quality in the  More

   |    Reply

Over 7 years ago

I grew up in Southern California and am no stranger to a more inland California climate. Before moving to WC I lived in San Francisco for 15 years where it is obviously  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Walnut Creek

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

   |    Reply

Dude · 
Over 5 years ago

This city is violent, there are too many gangs especially on the north  More

   |    Reply

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

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Des Moines


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.