2025 Compare Cities Overview:
West Des Moines, IA vs Palatine, IL

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Highlights
Are people in Palatine older or younger than people in West Des Moines?
- The Median Age in Palatine is 2.1 years older than in West Des Moines.

Are housing costs cheaper in Palatine or West Des Moines?
- Palatine housing costs are 8.3% more expensive than West Des Moines housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Palatine or West Des Moines?
- The average commute for residents of Palatine is 11.9 minutes longer than it is for residents of West Des Moines.

Things to do in West Des Moines?
West Des Moines, Iowa is a vibrant city located in the greater Des Moines area. This lively town offers an array of exciting attractions for visitors to explore such as the beautiful Living History Farms or the thrilling Adventureland Amusement Park. Residents here also enjoy plenty of outdoor activities at Raccoon River or Water Works Park. With its excellent school systems, thriving businesses, and wide range of recreational activities, it's no wonder why so many people choose to make West Des Moines their home.

Things to do in Palatine?
Palatine, Illinois is a vibrant village located in the Northwest suburbs of Chicago. This vibrant community offers its residents plenty of amenities and activities for all ages. From great schools to endless dining and shopping opportunities, Palatine is truly a great place to live. There's also lots of outdoor recreation to be enjoyed at nearby Deer Grove Forest Preserve and Busse Woods, plus a plethora of cultural attractions such as The cutting Hall Performing Arts Center. With its excellent quality of life and numerous job opportunities, Palatine is the ideal location to call home!

 West Des Moines, IAPalatine, ILUnited States
 Population  Unlock67,754329,725,481
 Median Income$76,564  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock38.238.4
 Avg. Home Price$282,300  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.7%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time17.17  Unlock26.38
Reviews for West Des Moines    4 Reviews

Over 16 years ago

I just moved here from out-of-state a few months ago and have been pleasantly surprised by the broad range of activities and amenities available in this medium sized IA  More

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Over 16 years ago

Am contemplating a move to WDM from the East Coast (NYC). Might there be anyone out there that may have experienced this and could offer guidance or comment. Thanks.   More

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We just moved to West Des Moines and we love it here! We moved here three months ago and every weekend we have been able to do something different and fun. There is  More

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Reviews for Palatine    7 Reviews

No town is perfect. One flaw in Palatine are that it lacks enough updated, healthier food restaurants. A more serious flaw is that the elementary district does not  More

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Over 15 years ago

The correct total Sales Tax Rate for Palatine, Cook County, IL is 9.5%, not  More

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Over 15 years ago

Palatine is a great community for raising a family. Good schools and extremely low crime rate just add to that point. Minutes to Schaumburg and all the shopping and  More

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