2025 Compare Cities Overview:
West Des Moines, IA vs Portage, MI

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Highlights
Are people in Portage older or younger than people in West Des Moines?
- The Median Age in Portage is 0.9 years older than in West Des Moines.

Are housing costs cheaper in Portage or West Des Moines?
- Portage housing costs are 10.7% less expensive than West Des Moines housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Portage or West Des Moines?
- The average commute for residents of Portage is 2.3 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 Portage?
Portage, MI is a peaceful community located in Kalamazoo County near Lake Michigan. Home to numerous parks and recreational areas including Celery Flats Historical Area and Portage Creek Bicentennial Park, Portage provides its residents with plenty of outdoor resources perfect for activities like disc golfing at Milham Park Golf Course or fishing on Pigeon River Country State Game Area. In addition, there are many restaurants, unique shops and other amenities that make living here so enjoyable. Whether you’re looking for rural serenity or just want easy access to nearby cities — Portage has something for everyone!

 West Des Moines, IAPortage, MIUnited States
 Population  Unlock48,767329,725,481
 Median Income$76,564  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock3738.4
 Avg. Home Price$282,300  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.7%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 Portage    3 Reviews

I'm just writing because I think that the people who are in my opinion bashing Kalamazoo, really don't know anything about it. I have vacationed in much larger cities,  More

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Before I moved to Portage in 2007, I didn't have any real breathing problems. I had a minor case of hay fever. I moved here and I am stuck inside most of the summer  More

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Over 20 years ago

Portage is a nice palce to live and raise a family. I don't think it would be a good place for a single  More

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