San Marcos, California vs. Des Moines, Iowa

Cost of Living Comparison

The cost of living in Des Moines, Iowa is 49.4% cheaper than San Marcos, California.

You would need a salary of $25,322 in Des Moines, Iowa to maintain the standard of living you have in San Marcos, California.
Comparison highlights
• Overall, Des Moines, Iowa is cheaper than San Marcos, California
• Median Home Cost is the biggest factor in the cost of living difference.
Median Home Cost
78% cheaper in Des Moines
than in San Marcos, California
San Marcos, CA vs. Des Moines, IA
Compared to San Marcos, Des Moines is:
  Homeowner
      No Child Care, Taxes not Considered
  49.4% lower
      Child Care, Taxes not Considered
      Child Care, Taxes Considered
      No Child Care, Taxes Considered
  Renter
      No Child Care, Taxes not Considered
      Child Care, Taxes not Considered
      Child Care, Taxes Considered
      No Child Care, Taxes Considered
  Food
  12.2% lower
  Housing (Homeowner)
  76.5% lower
  Housing (Rent)
  Median Home Cost
  Utilities
  13.8% lower
  Commute
  39.2% lower
  Health
  15.1% higher
  Taxes
  Childcare
  Personal
  14.6% lower