If you’ve been researching the cost of living in Des Moines, Iowa, you’ve probably heard it’s one of the Midwest’s most affordable metros. But what makes it so budget-friendly? From housing prices well below the national average to reasonable utilities, food, and transportation costs, Des Moines offers a surprisingly low average cost of living in Iowa without sacrificing amenities. But affordability isn’t everything.
Is Des Moines a good place to live long-term? We’ll break down key expenses like healthcare, goods & services, and local income levels to see how the numbers stack up for families, professionals, and retirees. Whether you’re relocating or just curious, here’s what you need to know about making (and stretching) your money in Iowa’s capital.
Housing
When evaluating the cost of living in Des Moines, Iowa, housing has a significant advantage. The average cost of living in Iowa is already 13% lower than the national average, and Des Moines is no exception, with median home prices and rents significantly more affordable than those in larger U.S. cities.
Renting an apartment in Des Moines typically costs far less than in coastal metros, with an average price of $1,078. At the same time, homebuyers enjoy reasonable prices for single-family homes at an average of $358,050. Some of the most affordable neighborhoods have rent below $1,000 and an average home price of $166,420. Whether you prefer urban living or suburban charm, the cost of living in Des Moines, IA, keeps homeownership within reach. It’s clear why many ask: “Is Des Moines a good place to live?” The answer is often a resounding yes for those prioritizing affordability without sacrificing quality.
Utilities
In Des Moines, utilities emerge as another area where residents save significantly. The average cost for essential services like electricity, water, and gas tends to be lower than national benchmarks by 16%. RentCafe’s data shows that monthly utility costs in Des Moines, IA—including heating, cooling, and internet—typically run well below what you’d pay in larger cities. For example, energy costs are around $148.44 while phone bills average $186.27.
Food
One of the pleasant surprises for newcomers is how far food budgets stretch here. Grocery bills tend to run noticeably lower than national averages, with staples like dairy and produce costing less than $5 each. No more worrying about those egg prices! These food savings and other low-living expenses make the city particularly appealing for those seeking an affordable yet vibrant community.
Healthcare
One of the most attractive aspects of living in Des Moines is that healthcare expenses run about 9% lower than the national average. A typical doctor’s visit costs around $127, while dental services average $105, significantly less than in many metropolitan areas.
For retirees, this affordability is particularly valuable. Combined with the city’s lower overall living expenses, these healthcare savings make Des Moines an increasingly popular choice for active seniors.
Transportation
Transportation expenses in Des Moines are approximately 9% below the national average, making getting around both affordable and convenient. Gas prices typically run lower than in many other parts of the country, with current averages around $3.00−$3.20 per gallon, a significant savings for commuters. Additionally, Des Moines offers plenty of public transport options as well as a skywalk system that many pedestrians love to use in the wintertime. The stress-free commute is one of the many reasons people find Des Moines a great place to live.
Goods & Services
Des Moines offers affordable pricing for both clothing and daily services. For clothing essentials, a men’s dress shirt averages $36.99, women′s slacks cost about $35.43, and a pair of boys’ jeans runs approximately $24.01. When it comes to entertainment and personal services, residents can expect to pay around $11.10 for a movie ticket, $20.78 for a yoga class, and $14.86 for a newspaper subscription.
Personal care services remain budget-friendly too, with haircuts averaging $20.69, beauty salon visits costing $41.35, and dry cleaning services priced at $15.24. These reasonable prices across clothing and services categories contribute to Des Moines’ overall cost-effective lifestyle, making it an attractive place for those looking to manage their everyday expenses wisely.
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Income
Des Moines offers competitive wages that align well with its affordable cost of living. The city’s median household income is approximately $65,000, providing residents with solid purchasing power. Many professional sectors, including finance, insurance, and healthcare, offer strong earning potential, while service industry jobs typically pay wages that keep pace with the area’s lower living expenses.
This balance between income and costs makes Des Moines an attractive option for professionals and families seeking financial stability without the high price tag of larger metro areas.
Conclusion
Des Moines stands out as a well-balanced city where affordable living costs meet solid income potential. With groceries, dining, and healthcare priced below the national average—and essentials like clothing and personal services remaining budget-friendly—residents enjoy significant savings on everyday expenses.
The city’s median household income of around $65,000 further strengthens its appeal, offering financial stability without the steep costs of larger metropolitan areas. Whether it’s housing, entertainment, or professional opportunities, Des Moines provides a cost-effective lifestyle without compromising quality, making it an ideal choice for individuals and families alike.
FAQs
Between its low cost of living, strong job market, friendly communities, and cultural amenities (festivals, trails, dining), Des Moines offers big-city perks without the high prices.
Yes, Des Moines’ cost of living has risen modestly in recent years, with housing seeing the biggest jumps, but it remains 10-15% cheaper than the national average overall. While groceries, utilities, and gas have gotten more expensive, the city still offers better affordability than most comparable metros.
The most affordable Des Moines neighborhoods include South Park (avg. rent $800), Drake Park (avg. rent $800), and Highland Park (homes ~120K with avg. rent of $1,000).
Harley Green was born and raised in Holiday, Florida, and has always had a passion for storytelling, design, and strategic communication. She’s currently finishing up her degrees in Integrated PR & Advertising and Creative Writing at the University of South Florida, where she balances writing, research, and creative projects. When she's not working or going to class, she's watching anime, playing video games, or spending some time with her two cats, Ciri and Cana.
