2025 Compare Cities Overview:
West Lafayette, IN vs West Des Moines, IA

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Highlights
Are people in West Des Moines older or younger than people in West Lafayette?
- The Median Age in West Des Moines is 14.6 years older than in West Lafayette.

Are housing costs cheaper in West Des Moines or West Lafayette?
- West Des Moines housing costs are 7.7% less expensive than West Lafayette housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, West Des Moines or West Lafayette?
- The average commute for residents of West Des Moines is 1.5 minutes longer than it is for residents of West Lafayette.

Things to do in West Lafayette?
West Lafayette, IN is a vibrant city located in Tippecanoe County in north-central Indiana. Home to Purdue University, the community of West Lafayette offers its residents access to world-class education facilities and a thriving economy. The area features several parks and recreational areas perfect for outdoor activities such as biking along the Wabash River or playing baseball at Howard Park. Residents also appreciate being surrounded by a variety of restaurants, unique shops, art galleries and other amenities that make living here so enjoyable. Whether you’re looking to explore nature’s beauty or just want to experience a lively college town atmosphere, West Lafayette is sure to please!

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.

 West Lafayette, INWest Des Moines, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock67,640329,725,481
 Median Income$28,744  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock36.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$306,000  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock3.3%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time15.63  Unlock26.38
Reviews for West Lafayette    11 Reviews

I am originally from Greencastle, Indiana, a nice friendly rural town and home to DePauw University. Presently, I live in West Lafayette, Indiana, due to my having been  More

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Over 11 years ago

It's a nice small town. It's too bad it's not closer to Indy. I think I would like it here  More

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Over 14 years ago

They have good schools, parks and always have events to  More

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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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