2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Washington, DC vs Des Moines, IA

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Highlights
Are people in Des Moines older or younger than people in Washington?
- The Median Age in Des Moines is 0.1 years younger than in Washington.

Are housing costs cheaper in Des Moines or Washington?
- Des Moines housing costs are 72.8% less expensive than Washington housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Des Moines or Washington?
- The average commute for residents of Des Moines is 11.2 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Washington.

Things to do in Washington?
Washington D.C. is a vibrant city full of history and culture. Visit the iconic landmarks like the White House, the Lincoln Memorial, or the Smithsonian Museums - all within walking distance of each other. Explore famous monuments such as The Washington Monument or take a tour of Capitol Hill and experience our nation's political history firsthand. With its dynamic nightlife scene, world-class restaurants, and abundance of art and cultural institutions, Washington D.C. has something to offer every kind of traveler!

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!

 Washington, DCDes Moines, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock213,545329,725,481
 Median Income$93,547  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock34.238.4
 Avg. Home Price$644,900  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time30.04  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Washington    97 Reviews

Over 4 years ago

Living in DC long term brings on a kind of insidious misery. A long, slow, simmering down of any natural optimism or desire for a better future. It’s a leach of a town  More

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Over 5 years ago

Parts are beautiful but alot is rundown and ghetto. They always show the monuments and upper nw neighborhoods but never show hoods across the Anacostia River. Crime is  More

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Moved to DC 40 years ago from Mpls-St. Paul. DC is an amazing town. Downside is people are very competitive, everything is expensive. Great restaurants, foodie heaven  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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