Cost of Living in Des Moines, IA
Population: 212,464 • 2026 Data
$63,966
Median Household Income
-17% vs national
$1,054
Median Monthly Rent
-22% vs national
$183,700
Median Home Value
-46% vs national
5.7%
Unemployment Rate
Housing in Des Moines
The median home value in Des Moines, IA is $183,700. Monthly rent for a typical unit averages $1,054, while total monthly housing costs (including utilities and insurance) average $1,137.
Rent-to-income ratio: 19.8%. This is within the recommended 30% threshold, suggesting housing is relatively affordable for median-income earners.
Income and Employment
The median household income in Des Moines, IA is $63,966. The unemployment rate stands at 5.7%, with a labor force of 119,617 people.
Data Sources
All data from the US Census Bureau American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates. National median figures used for comparison context.