Des Moines, IA cost of living
IA · BLS RPP 91.4
Estimated — not yet source-verified.Estimated — not yet source-verified against official BLS/HUD figures. This page is not indexed. Treat the RPP and FMR values as rough proxies and verify with the BLS or HUD datasets directly before relying on them.
Overall RPP
91.4
US = 100
Housing RPP
83.8
Housing component
Goods RPP
97.2
Goods component
2-BR Rent (HUD)
$1,040/mo
FY2024 FMR
What salary do you need in Des Moines, IA?
Equivalent salary to maintain the same purchasing power as in a US-average city (RPP 100).
| In US-average city | You need in Des Moines, IA | Formula |
|---|---|---|
| $50,000 | $45,700 | $50,000 x (91.4/100) |
| $75,000 | $68,550 | $75,000 x (91.4/100) |
| $100,000 | $91,400 | $100,000 x (91.4/100) |
| $125,000 | $114,250 | $125,000 x (91.4/100) |
| $150,000 | $137,100 | $150,000 x (91.4/100) |
| $200,000 | $182,800 | $200,000 x (91.4/100) |
This tool provides estimates only. Equivalent-salary figures are derived from BLS Regional Price Parities (RPP) and HUD Fair Market Rents — they are averages, not guarantees. Actual cost of living varies by neighborhood, lifestyle, and individual circumstances. Not financial advice.
State income tax note
Iowa income tax 4.4%-6.0%.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the cost of living in Des Moines, IA?
- Des Moines, IA has a BLS Regional Price Parity of 91.4 (US average = 100). It is 8.6% less expensive than the national average.
- What salary do I need to live in Des Moines, IA?
- If you earn $100,000 in a US-average city (RPP 100), you would need approximately $91,400 in Des Moines, IA to maintain the same purchasing power.
- What is the average rent in Des Moines, IA?
- The HUD Fair Market Rent for a 2-bedroom in Des Moines, IA is approximately $1,040 per month as of FY2024.
Compare with other cities
Buying a home in Des Moines, IA? See closing costs at TallyClose.