2023 Suburbs of Des Moines Area with the Lowest Cost of Living (2023)

1-25 of 42 results

  1. #1 Suburbs with the Lowest Cost of Living in Des Moines Area

    Carlisle

    • Town in Iowa

    • •

      Rating 4 out of 511 reviews

    Current Resident:Carlisle, Iowa is likely Iowa's best kept secret. The community comes together like no other, no matter the occasion. The festive 4th of July brings the entire town to the park, where we all stay for the duration of the day. Every Friday night, the football stands are completely filled. When tragedy strikes, the entire town can be found in the pew, praying. The town is filled with options for country boys and city slickers alike. The town is right in the middle of the Des Moines, Middle, and South Rivers, but also just a 15 minute drive to downtown Des Moines. Carlisle also has multiple parks and a very popular bike trail which leads to Banner, a state park with a lake. Most of the town is in the upper middle class or middle class; many people use the short commute to Des Moines for their employment. Carlisle, Iowa is a wonderful place!...Read 11 reviews

    • gradeB+

    • gradeB

    • gradeB+

    • Population 4,063

    #1 Suburbs with the Lowest Cost of Living in Des Moines Area.

    Carlisle

    Town in Iowa,

    11 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

    Featured Review: Current Resident saysCarlisle, Iowa is likely Iowa's best kept secret. The community comes together like no other, no matter the occasion. The festive 4th of July brings the entire town to the park, where we all stay for....

    Read 11 reviews.

    Overall Niche Grade: B+,

    Population: 4,063,

  2. #2 Suburbs with the Lowest Cost of Living in Des Moines Area

    Indianola

    • Town in Iowa

    • •

      Rating 3.93 out of 555 reviews

    Current Resident:Indianola is a great family town. Annually hosting numerous community events for families to participate in, Indianola also brings in many travelers. Its town square has many boutiques and local restaurants that provide a place for families to shop and enjoy each other's company. Indianola also hosts many sports tournaments throughout the year at our local sports complexes bringing in families from near and far. There are many suburban neighborhoods that are lined with homes fit perfect for families and for a reasonable price. All in all, Indianola has lots to offer for young and old and is a great place to live....Read 55 reviews

    • gradeB+

    • gradeB

    • gradeB+

    • Population 15,544

    #2 Suburbs with the Lowest Cost of Living in Des Moines Area.

    Indianola

    Town in Iowa,

    55 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.

    Featured Review: Current Resident saysIndianola is a great family town. Annually hosting numerous community events for families to participate in, Indianola also brings in many travelers. Its town square has many boutiques and local....

    Read 55 reviews.

    Overall Niche Grade: B+,

    Population: 15,544,

  3. #3 Suburbs with the Lowest Cost of Living in Des Moines Area

    Adel

    • Town in Iowa

    • •

      Rating 3.8 out of 510 reviews

    Current Resident:Adel is a small town but has started to grow rapidly in recent years. Every one is extremely friendly and if your car breaks down, some one is always willing to stop and help you. It's a great community and the pride people have for the school is awesome. I have lived here my whole life and would love to raise a family here some day. Everyone is so connected....Read 10 reviews

    • gradeB+

    • gradeB

    • gradeB

    • Population 5,867

    #3 Suburbs with the Lowest Cost of Living in Des Moines Area.

    Adel

    Town in Iowa,

    10 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.

    Featured Review: Current Resident saysAdel is a small town but has started to grow rapidly in recent years. Every one is extremely friendly and if your car breaks down, some one is always willing to stop and help you. It's a great....

    Read 10 reviews.

    Overall Niche Grade: B+,

    Population: 5,867,

  5. #4 Suburbs with the Lowest Cost of Living in Des Moines Area

    Norwalk

    • Suburb of Des Moines, IA

    • •

      Rating 3.68 out of 547 reviews

    Current Resident:Norwalk is a growing community that maintains a "small town" feel. Access to downtown Des Moines is quick and easy with an abundance of shopping in close proximity but quiet at home. Easy access to the airport. Norwalk is connected to the Great Western Trail with several new parks across the City. There is one large new park with a trail and water features. The school system is superb with non-open enrollment. Only people living in the district can enroll. My wife and I like knowing the school will only grow as fast as the City grows. We will call this home until retirement!...Read 47 reviews

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    • gradeB+

    • gradeB

    • Population 12,592

    #4 Suburbs with the Lowest Cost of Living in Des Moines Area.

    Norwalk

    Suburb of Des Moines, IA,

    47 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.

    Featured Review: Current Resident saysNorwalk is a growing community that maintains a "small town" feel. Access to downtown Des Moines is quick and easy with an abundance of shopping in close proximity but quiet at home. Easy access to....

    Read 47 reviews.

    Overall Niche Grade: A minus,

    Population: 12,592,

  6. #5 Suburbs with the Lowest Cost of Living in Des Moines Area

    Grimes

    • Suburb of Des Moines, IA

    • •

      Rating 3.67 out of 555 reviews

    Current Resident:Just moved to Grimes a couple months ago and love it! The town is adorable and has a rustic look to it. I have friends who have lived here for years and love the schools, neighborhoods, and nearby shops. Grimes's location is also near the Menards, Aldi, and Walmart so its always easy to shop. There is also a HyVee scheduled to be built....Read 55 reviews

    • gradeA

    • gradeA

    • gradeB

    • Population 14,842

    #5 Suburbs with the Lowest Cost of Living in Des Moines Area.

    Grimes

    Suburb of Des Moines, IA,

    55 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.

    Featured Review: Current Resident saysJust moved to Grimes a couple months ago and love it! The town is adorable and has a rustic look to it. I have friends who have lived here for years and love the schools, neighborhoods, and nearby....

    Read 55 reviews.

    Overall Niche Grade: A,

    Population: 14,842,

  7. #6 Suburbs with the Lowest Cost of Living in Des Moines Area

    Urbandale

    • Suburb of Des Moines, IA

    • •

      Rating 4.2 out of 5108 reviews

    Current Resident:I enjoy living in Urbandale as it is included in the Des Moines Metro area while also having the rare ability of incorporating the country into it. Well connected to the rest of the city via I-35/235 mixmaster. Commute times are far better than any other major U.S city. Very safe suburb, grew up running around with friends without parental oversight. many natural areas to explore like walnut creek and all of its many parks that encompass the overall greenbelt. (network of trails following walnut creek) many fond memories of fishing and always being outside with school friends. Housing market is in a boom which is good for residents moving in as their homes will surely rise in value. Rapid expansion overall, new homes being built everyday with accompanying infrastructure. Cost of living is much lower than many other U.S cities, our tax rates are at a steady 6.3% and have no intentions of changing at all. Urbandale is just slightly below the national average in cost of living...Read 108 reviews

    • gradeA

    • gradeA

    • gradeB

    • Population 45,037

    #6 Suburbs with the Lowest Cost of Living in Des Moines Area.

    Urbandale

    Suburb of Des Moines, IA,

    108 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars.

    Featured Review: Current Resident saysI enjoy living in Urbandale as it is included in the Des Moines Metro area while also having the rare ability of incorporating the country into it. Well connected to the rest of the city via....

    Read 108 reviews.

    Overall Niche Grade: A,

    Population: 45,037,

  10. #7 Suburbs with the Lowest Cost of Living in Des Moines Area

    Polk City

    • Town in Iowa

    • •

      Rating 4.1 out of 510 reviews

    Current Resident:I have grown up in Polk City and it is the perfect place to raise children. The public school system is great. There are a lot of opportunities for all kids (from help to kids that need extra help). The high school is great about letting the kids take college classes. All the college classes are paid for if the kids do it during the school year. That includes the textbooks. Polk City is 30 minutes away from Des Moines and Ames. It is 15 minutes away from Ankney which has a lot of job opportunities for younger and older kids, it also has a DMACC campus. There is not a lot of nightlife but Polk City does have four bars, so if you like to drink you will have options. Polk City has plenty of parks, some with play sets and one has a tennis court! Polk City is also growing which more food places and is a great place....Read 10 reviews

    • gradeA minus

    • gradeA

    • gradeB

    • Population 5,386

    #7 Suburbs with the Lowest Cost of Living in Des Moines Area.

    Polk City

    Town in Iowa,

    10 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.

    Featured Review: Current Resident saysI have grown up in Polk City and it is the perfect place to raise children. The public school system is great. There are a lot of opportunities for all kids (from help to kids that need extra help).....

    Read 10 reviews.

    Overall Niche Grade: A minus,

    Population: 5,386,

  11. #8 Suburbs with the Lowest Cost of Living in Des Moines Area

    Bondurant

    • Suburb of Des Moines, IA

    • •

      Rating 4.5 out of 518 reviews

    Current Resident:I like that Bondurant is rapidly growing but you can still have the small-town feel. It seems like everybody knows everybody. My family has been in Bondurant for a very long time on my dad's side. Whenever my last name is mentioned because know us from being teachers in the community. Bondurant has accepted and adapted to the big boost of interest in Bondurant, as far as living. They have built lots of new housing developments and updated and built new schools. Even as little as making some of the roads bigger to help with traffic jams at the beginning and end of the school days. Overall I have had a very good experience in Bondurant and I think most other people living in this community would say the same....Read 18 reviews

    • gradeA minus

    • gradeB

    • gradeB

    • Population 7,163

    #8 Suburbs with the Lowest Cost of Living in Des Moines Area.

    Bondurant

    Suburb of Des Moines, IA,

    18 Niche users give it an average review of 4.5 stars.

    Featured Review: Current Resident saysI like that Bondurant is rapidly growing but you can still have the small-town feel. It seems like everybody knows everybody. My family has been in Bondurant for a very long time on my dad's side. ....

    Read 18 reviews.

    Overall Niche Grade: A minus,

    Population: 7,163,

  12. #9 Suburbs with the Lowest Cost of Living in Des Moines Area

    Clive

    • Suburb of Des Moines, IA

    • •

      Rating 3.93 out of 543 reviews

    Current Resident:Although Clive is a small suburb of the larger city of Des Moines, it has lots to offer. Campbell park offers slow pitch softball and a little music festival every Friday night of the summer with food trucks, live music, and sand volleyball. Clive also provides lots of beautiful trails like the greenbelt trail that extends through Clive, that reach from the Country Club neighborhood to the Clive tool, to the other side. Along the trail you could see multiple parks, the Country Club Lake, and the Clive goats. The Neighborhoods in Clive are very nice, clean, and safe. Clive is kept up by the Clive grounds crew that keep the parks and streets clean of trash, they spray all streets and neighborhoods at night for bugs, and they plow the streets of snow in the winter. They also take care of the softball fields at Campbell park and mow the large fields. I have lived in a different suburb of Des Moines called West Des Moines and it couldn't compare to living in Clive. I wouldn’t want to move....Read 43 reviews

    • gradeA+

    • gradeA

    • gradeB

    • Population 18,323

    #9 Suburbs with the Lowest Cost of Living in Des Moines Area.

    Clive

    Suburb of Des Moines, IA,

    43 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.

    Featured Review: Current Resident saysAlthough Clive is a small suburb of the larger city of Des Moines, it has lots to offer. Campbell park offers slow pitch softball and a little music festival every Friday night of the summer with....

    Read 43 reviews.

    Overall Niche Grade: A+,

    Population: 18,323,

  14. #10 Suburbs with the Lowest Cost of Living in Des Moines Area

    Altoona

    • Suburb of Des Moines, IA

    • •

      Rating 4.13 out of 556 reviews

    Current Resident:I love Altoona because its one of the smaller suburbs of Des Moines which I like but it's big enough where not everybody knows everyone so when people go to public events, you get the chance to meet new people and that can be a fun experience for those who are outgoing and like meeting new people. Altoona is a safe place and filled with lots of friendly people; and if someone needs help or is looking for recommendations, there is always help out there....Read 56 reviews

    • gradeB+

    • gradeB+

    • gradeB

    • Population 19,345

    #10 Suburbs with the Lowest Cost of Living in Des Moines Area.

    Altoona

    Suburb of Des Moines, IA,

    56 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.

    Featured Review: Current Resident saysI love Altoona because its one of the smaller suburbs of Des Moines which I like but it's big enough where not everybody knows everyone so when people go to public events, you get the chance to meet....

    Read 56 reviews.

    Overall Niche Grade: B+,

    Population: 19,345,

  15. #11 Suburbs with the Lowest Cost of Living in Des Moines Area

    Windsor Heights

    • Suburb of Des Moines, IA

    • •

      Rating 4.7 out of 510 reviews

    Current Resident:It is exactly what one would expect from a smaller suburb of a medium city. There is a community presence, but the community itself is not overwhelmingly close-knit. There are two separate school districts in this suburb, and both are among the best in the state. All in all, a good place to live and you get exactly what you expect....Read 10 reviews

    • gradeA

    • gradeB+

    • gradeB

    • Population 5,208

    #11 Suburbs with the Lowest Cost of Living in Des Moines Area.

    Windsor Heights

    Suburb of Des Moines, IA,

    10 Niche users give it an average review of 4.7 stars.

    Featured Review: Current Resident saysIt is exactly what one would expect from a smaller suburb of a medium city. There is a community presence, but the community itself is not overwhelmingly close-knit. There are two separate school....

    Read 10 reviews.

    Overall Niche Grade: A,

    Population: 5,208,

  16. #12 Suburbs with the Lowest Cost of Living in Des Moines Area

    Waukee

    • Suburb of Des Moines, IA

    • •

      Rating 4.4 out of 552 reviews

    Current Resident:I have lived in Waukee, Iowa for four years now! It is truly one of the best neighborhoods in this world! Everyone around here are good friends no matter if you are poor, different race, go to a private school, are part of a different religion, and more! There is a reason why Waukee's growth rate has increased by 74% since 2010! People love it here and there are so many opportunities everywhere! Waukee is the fastest growing city in the entire state of Iowa! You feel safe and protected where ever you are. Whether that be at school, at the park, at home, or maybe just hanging out with some friends! Waukee is a suburb of Iowa's capital, Des Moines. It's about a 20 minute drive to Des Moines which makes the commute time pretty good! There are some many things you can do in Waukee! I love Waukee and will continue to for as long as I live here!...Read 52 reviews

    • gradeA+

    • gradeA

    • gradeB

    • Population 23,441

    #12 Suburbs with the Lowest Cost of Living in Des Moines Area.

    Waukee

    Suburb of Des Moines, IA,

    52 Niche users give it an average review of 4.4 stars.

    Featured Review: Current Resident saysI have lived in Waukee, Iowa for four years now! It is truly one of the best neighborhoods in this world! Everyone around here are good friends no matter if you are poor, different race, go to a....

    Read 52 reviews.

    Overall Niche Grade: A+,

    Population: 23,441,

  19. #13 Suburbs with the Lowest Cost of Living in Des Moines Area

    Pleasant Hill

    • Suburb of Des Moines, IA

    • •

      Rating 3.84 out of 538 reviews

    Current Resident:Living in Pleasant Hill is basically like living in a small town, with all the perks of living in the city right next door. We know our neighbors. We have neighborhoods to walk through that are nice, etc. But it is still next to the city and crime is still an issue. Make sure to lock those doors!...Read 38 reviews

    • gradeB

    • gradeB+

    • gradeB

    • Population 10,203

    #13 Suburbs with the Lowest Cost of Living in Des Moines Area.

    Pleasant Hill

    Suburb of Des Moines, IA,

    38 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.

    Featured Review: Current Resident saysLiving in Pleasant Hill is basically like living in a small town, with all the perks of living in the city right next door. We know our neighbors. We have neighborhoods to walk through that are nice,....

    Read 38 reviews.

    Overall Niche Grade: B,

    Population: 10,203,

  20. #14 Suburbs with the Lowest Cost of Living in Des Moines Area

    West Des Moines

    • Town in Iowa

    • •

      Rating 4.24 out of 5136 reviews

    Current Resident:While being very close to the Jordan Creek Mall, lots of restaurants, fun activities, large retail stores, hotels and much more, West Des Moines is an amazing city. With short commute times and amazing people, West Des Moines is an excellent place to live or just to visit!...Read 136 reviews

    • gradeA+

    • gradeA

    • gradeB

    • Population 67,640

    #14 Suburbs with the Lowest Cost of Living in Des Moines Area.

    West Des Moines

    Town in Iowa,

    136 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars.

    Featured Review: Current Resident saysWhile being very close to the Jordan Creek Mall, lots of restaurants, fun activities, large retail stores, hotels and much more, West Des Moines is an amazing city. With short commute times and....

    Read 136 reviews.

    Overall Niche Grade: A+,

    Population: 67,640,

  21. #15 Suburbs with the Lowest Cost of Living in Des Moines Area

    Ankeny

    • Suburb of Des Moines, IA

    • •

      Rating 4.14 out of 5180 reviews

    Current Resident:I have lived in Ankeny almost my whole life. Ankeny has just about everything you'll ever need. However, it is getting much busier. It feels very safe and most of the time is not too loud if you don't live right next to a busy road. The construction in the summer time is very frustrating. There are several main roads shut down right now. I would like to see a few more restaurant options on the north side of town....Read 180 reviews

    • gradeA

    • gradeA

    • gradeB

    • Population 66,346

    #15 Suburbs with the Lowest Cost of Living in Des Moines Area.

    Ankeny

    Suburb of Des Moines, IA,

    180 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.

    Featured Review: Current Resident saysI have lived in Ankeny almost my whole life. Ankeny has just about everything you'll ever need. However, it is getting much busier. It feels very safe and most of the time is not too loud if you....

    Read 180 reviews.

    Overall Niche Grade: A,

    Population: 66,346,

  22. Johnston

    • Suburb of Des Moines, IA

    • •

      Rating 4.23 out of 535 reviews

    Current Resident:I have lived in or near Johnston for the majority of my life. It is a beautiful town, with many nice places to visit, and is full of great people from many walks of life and many different backgrounds. This suburb is not overly busy, while still being near many of the more active areas. It has many indoor and outdoor activities and has many excellent restaurants to try. There are plenty of opportunities for employment and education here as well. All in all, Johnston is a growing town that is an excellent place to live....Read 35 reviews

    • gradeA

    • gradeA

    • gradeB minus

    • Population 23,418

    Johnston

    Suburb of Des Moines, IA,

    35 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars.

    Featured Review: Current Resident saysI have lived in or near Johnston for the majority of my life. It is a beautiful town, with many nice places to visit, and is full of great people from many walks of life and many different....

    Read 35 reviews.

    Overall Niche Grade: A,

    Population: 23,418,

  23. Saylorville

    • Suburb of Des Moines, IA

    • •

      Rating 3.8 out of 515 reviews

    Current Resident:I enjoy living in Saylorville as it is very close to two major towns and offers easy access to many different restaurants and shops. However, you do have to travel a bit if you want access to public parks that are not on elementary school grounds. Overall, I love it!...Read 15 reviews

    • gradeB

    • gradeB

    • gradeC+

    • Population 2,916

    Saylorville

    Suburb of Des Moines, IA,

    15 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.

    Featured Review: Current Resident saysI enjoy living in Saylorville as it is very close to two major towns and offers easy access to many different restaurants and shops. However, you do have to travel a bit if you want access to public....

    Read 15 reviews.

    Overall Niche Grade: B,

    Population: 2,916,

  30. Elkhart Township

    • Suburb of Des Moines, IA

    • •

      Rating 4 out of 51 review

    Niche User:The area I live in is rural, so of course there's not much to see. The people are spread out, but sometimes neighbors hold events for getting together. It's rare though. Other people say the area is beautiful, and I mean, I guess it is, if you like corn and soybean fields.The majority of the houses in the area are nice....Read 1 review

    • gradeA minus

    • gradeA minus

    • gradeB+

    • Population 1,420

    Elkhart Township

    Suburb of Des Moines, IA,

    1 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

    Featured Review: Niche User saysThe area I live in is rural, so of course there's not much to see. The people are spread out, but sometimes neighbors hold events for getting together. It's rare though. Other people say the area is....

    Read 1 reviews.

    Overall Niche Grade: A minus,

    Population: 1,420,

FAQs

2023 Suburbs of Des Moines Area with the Lowest Cost of Living? ›

Carlisle. #1 Suburbs with the Lowest Cost of Living in Des Moines Area.

Tell Me More ›
What is the least expensive town to live in in Iowa? ›

  1. Keokuk. Home Price to Income Ratio: 2.05. ...
  2. Fort Madison. Home Price to Income Ratio: 1.91. ...
  3. Waterloo. Home Price to Income Ratio: 2.48. ...
  4. Burlington. Home Price to Income Ratio: 1.96. ...
  5. Oskaloosa. Home Price to Income Ratio: 2.03. ...
  6. Sioux City. Home Price to Income Ratio: 2.10. ...
  7. Newton. Home Price to Income Ratio: 2.36. ...
  8. Fort Dodge.

Keep Reading ›
Is Des Moines a cheap place to live? ›

Des Moines has consistently been a cheaper place to live, with housing prices that remain below the national median. However, its value score has been declining since 2018. The net migration score has declined in recent years but saw a rebound in 2023.

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What is the cheapest county to live in in Iowa? ›

Ida County

#1 Counties with the Lowest Cost of Living in Iowa.

Learn More Now ›
What is the nicest area of Des Moines Iowa? ›

The 5 Best Neighborhoods in Des Moines For Young Professionals
  • Arbor Peaks. Helpful Statistics. Median age: 35.7. Median household income: $34,526. ...
  • Beaverdale. Helpful Statistics. Median age: 39. ...
  • Downtown. Helpful Statistics. Median age: 36.3. ...
  • East Village. Helpful Statistics. Median age: 28.8. ...
  • Sherman Hill.

Discover More ›
Which city is best to live at low cost? ›

Amritsar, the city of the famous Golden Temple is ranking on the top among the top 10 cheapest places to live in India for the year 2023. It is one of the most affordable places to live in India. The average cost of living in Amritsar is the least expensive in comparison to the other cities of India.

Read The Full Story ›
Where do the most seniors live in Iowa? ›

There is a large concentration of senior living options around the major cities, like Des Moines, Cedar Rapids and Davenport, but there are options spread out all over the state.

Find Out More ›
What is the cheapest suburb of Des Moines? ›

Carlisle. #1 Suburbs with the Lowest Cost of Living in Des Moines Area.

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What are the safest areas to live in Des Moines? ›

Saylorville is known as one of the safest neighborhoods in Iowa due to its incredibly low crime rate. The neighborhood is located on a beautiful lakefront and is the perfect home for water-lovers. Also known as Rock Island District, Saylorville has a crime rate that is 80 percent lower than the national average.

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How much do you need to make to live comfortably in Des Moines? ›

Living Wage Calculation for Des Moines County, Iowa
1 ADULT2 ADULTS (BOTH WORKING)
0 Children1 Child
Living Wage$15.60$18.18
Poverty Wage$6.53$5.54
Minimum Wage$7.25$7.25

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What is the 3 cheapest state to live in? ›

The cheapest states to live in are Mississippi, Oklahoma, Kansas, Alabama, Georgia, Missouri, Iowa, Indiana, West Virginia, and Tennessee. Mississippi is the cheapest state to live in in the US, with a cost of living index of 85. The second cheapest state to live in is Oklahoma, with a cost of living index of 85.8.

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What is the 1 cheapest state to live in? ›

1. Mississippi. Coming in as the cheapest state to live in in the United States is Mississippi with a cost of living index score of 83.3. It also has the lowest average housing costs in the nation at 33.7% below the national average.

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Is it cheaper to live in Iowa or Missouri? ›

Iowa is 5.3% cheaper than Missouri.

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Is Des Moines expensive to live? ›

The cost of living in Des Moines, IA is 5% lower than the state average and 14% lower than the national average. Des Moines, IA housing is 32% cheaper than the U.S average, while utilities are about 15% less pricey.

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What are Des Moines biggest suburbs? ›

Ankeny is now Des Moines' biggest suburb, the latest U.S. Census Bureau data shows. Long one of the country's fastest-growing cities, Ankeny added another 2,400 residents from April 2020 to July 2021, according to the census' vintage data series estimates, released Thursday.

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What is the most expensive area in Des Moines? ›

$4 million Urbandale home was the most expensive in 2022

In 2022, according to Wanamaker's figures, three Des Moines-area homes sold for more than $2 million, and 13 went for more than $1.5 million. The highest price paid was $4 million for a home in Urbandale.

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Where is the cheapest place to live in 2023? ›

Most Affordable Cities to Live in 2023
RankCityMedian Home Price
1Green Bay, WI$245,000
2Wichita, KS$210,000
3Rapid City, SD$300,000
4Springfield, IL$139,000
6 more rows
May 30, 2023

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Where is the cheapest place to live by yourself? ›

Albuquerque, New Mexico, ranks as the most affordable city in the country for single renters. Studio apartments in Albuquerque go for a median price of $700, and the average single person would only need to spend 15.33% of their income to afford one.

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Where can I live comfortably on $40 000 a year? ›

Based on that data, here are five states where you can afford a home while making an annual salary of around $40,000:
  • West Virginia. Minimum annual income: $38,320. ...
  • Ohio. Minimum annual income: $38,400. ...
  • Michigan. Minimum annual income: $40,800. ...
  • Arkansas. Minimum annual income: $41,040. ...
  • Missouri. Minimum annual income: $42,200.
Apr 13, 2018

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Where are most seniors moving to? ›

States Where Retirees Moved To and From Most
RankNet GainNet Loss
1Florida 78,174California -71,828
2Arizona 25,090New York -46,709
3South Carolina 19,004Illinois -26,287
4North Carolina 18,996New Jersey -13,545
6 more rows
Apr 17, 2023

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What is the most affordable state to live for seniors? ›

Rather, Alabama is the most affordable state to retire in, according to WalletHub's “2023 Best States to Retire.” The analysis compared all 50 states across three key categories: health care, quality of life and affordability.

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Where is the most affordable place to live for seniors? ›

23 Cheap Places Where You Will Want To Retire
  • Tulsa, Oklahoma. ...
  • Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. ...
  • Sioux Falls, South Dakota. ...
  • Chattanooga, Tennessee. ...
  • Sherman, Texas. Cost of living for retirees: 13.0% below U.S. average. ...
  • St. George, Utah. ...
  • Roanoke, Virginia. Cost of living for retirees: 8.7% below U.S. average. ...
  • Spokane, Washington.

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What small towns are near Des Moines? ›

Polk County also includes communities such as Alleman, Altoona, Ankeny, Bondurant, Clive, Des Moines, Elkhart, Grimes, Johnston, Mitchellville, Pleasant Hill, Polk City, Runnells, Sheldahl, Urbandale, West Des Moines and Windsor Heights.

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What is the cheapest place to live in the Midwest? ›

Kalamazoo, Michigan is the cheapest city in the Midwest with a cost-of-living index of 77.5, according to the Council for Community and Economic Research.

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What is the cheapest Midwest state to buy a house? ›

There are still states where you can find affordable housing

The cheapest state nationwide was Illinois, where the monthly median sale price of a house last year was $133,750. The median sale price in Illinois's cheapest city, Galesburg, was $90,000, while its most expensive, Chicago, sat at $282,750.

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What city in Iowa has the worst crime rate? ›

Council Bluffs:

Council Bluffs, with a population of 62,144, is the most dangerous city in Iowa. Despite its historical significance and cultural richness, the city has seen a surge in both violent and property crimes.

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What are the pros and cons of living in Des Moines Iowa? ›

Pros and Cons of Living in Des Moines, IA – Summary Table
Pros of Living in Des Moines, IACons of Living in Des Moines, IA
1. Cost of Living1. Taxes
2. Friendliness2. Diversity
3. Wind Energy3. Education
4. Things to Do4. Crime
4 more rows

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How safe is Ankeny Iowa? ›

Roughly similar to the national average, our analysis shows that your chance of becoming a victim of violent crime in Ankeny is one in 725. Moreover, the rate of property crime in Ankeny; burglary, larceny ($50 or more), grand theft auto, and arson; is 10 per 1,000 residents.

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What's considered low income in Iowa? ›

LIHEAP (Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program) Income Guidelines
Size of HouseholdAnnual Gross Income* **
1$27,180
2$36,620
3$46,060
4$55,500
4 more rows

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What salary is considered poverty in Iowa? ›

Most of these supports base eligibility and benefit levels on a ratio of income to the federal poverty level (FPL). The FPL for a family of three in 2021 was $21,960. [2] A self-sufficiency wage in Iowa is about 200 percent to 250 percent of, or twice to 2½ times, the official federal poverty guideline (Figure 8).

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What is considered middle class income in Iowa? ›

Range of household incomes needed to be considered middle class, by family size
StateSingleFamily of four
Iowa$23,536 – $70,609$47,072 – $141,217
Kansas$23,615 – $70,844$47,229 – $141,687
Kentucky$22,910 – $68,730$45,820 – $137,460
Louisiana$23,588 – $70,765$47,177 – $141,530
48 more rows

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What is the most expensive state to live in 2023? ›

Hawaii is the most expensive state to live in, with a cost of living index of 184. Massachusetts is ranked second, with a cost of living index of 149.7, followed by California at 137.6, and New York at 134.5.

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What state is the safest and cheapest to live in? ›

Here are some of the cheapest and safest places to live in the US!
  • Live in Boise, Idaho.
  • Affordable living in Des Moines, Iowa.
  • Winston Salem, North Carolina: among the cheapest cities in USA.
  • Live affordably in Naples, Florida.
  • Enjoy Lexington, Kentucky.

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What state has the best income to cost of living ratio? ›

Mississippi is the state with the lowest cost of living in the US, with a cost of living index of 85. This means that the cost of living in Mississippi is 15% lower than the national average. The state has a low cost of housing, groceries, and utilities.

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What state is the second cheapest to live in? ›

West Virginia has the second cheapest housing among all the states in the US. The average house price in the Mountain State is 31.2% lower than the national average. The lower housing prices are due to the state's rural nature, which means that there are fewer large cities and lower demand for housing.

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What state in the US has the cheapest rent? ›

1. Mississippi. Mississippi is the cheapest place to live in the United States, with a cost of living 15.6% lower than the national average. Once you arrive in Mississippi, get ready for some fantastic music and food!

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What are the cheap blue states to live in? ›

Regarding affordability, the report indicates that Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New Jersey are the most affordable states with Arizona, Nevada, and Florida being the least affordable. The researchers came to this conclusion by using features such as credit score, mortgage debt, paid family leave, and median income.

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Is it cheaper to live in Iowa or Tennessee? ›

The cost of living in Nashville, TN is 1.7% higher than in Des Moines, IA. You would have to earn a salary of $61,007 to maintain your current standard of living. Employers in Nashville, TN typically pay -3.5% less than employers in Des Moines, IA.

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What is the most expensive city to live in Iowa? ›

Iowa City Press-Citizen: Where is the most expensive place to live in Iowa? According to a recent ranking by financial news and opinion company 24/7 Wall St., the answer is Iowa City.

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Is it cheaper to live in Ohio or Iowa? ›

The cost of living in Des Moines, IA is 5.5% higher than in Columbus, OH. You would have to earn a salary of $63,322 to maintain your current standard of living.

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Why do people move to Des Moines? ›

The key industries in the Des Moines area include advanced manufacturing, data centers, insurance and financial services. Des Moines is also a top-ranked city for people who work in tech, and it's a great city for teachers.

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What percent of Des Moines is white? ›

Table
Population
White alone, percent 71.7%
Black or African American alone, percent(a) 11.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native alone, percent(a) 0.3%
Asian alone, percent(a) 7.2%
54 more rows

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What is the most expensive part of Iowa? ›

Indeed, the most expensive in the state is the Iowa City metro area. What is this? Here, the cost of goods and services is 6.3% lower than the national average and 4.5% higher than the statewide average.

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What is the richest suburb in Iowa? ›

Richest Cities in Iowa
RankCityCounty
1MiloDelaware County
2NewportJohnson County
3East LucasJohnson County
4LeeMadison County
6 more rows

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Is Des Moines a good place to move to? ›

Thanks to all those amenities, plus high salaries and a low cost of living, Des Moines is one of the best places to live in the U.S. The friendly communities and short commutes are a plus, too.

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Is Des Moines the fastest growing city? ›

Des Moines is again topping the chart as the fastest-growing major Midwest metro. According to newly released US Census estimates, the Des Moines metro grew 1.2% from 2021 to 2022. That exceeded the rate for other hot spots in the region that also are among the nation's top 100 most-populous metros.

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Is West Des Moines wealthy? ›

This equates to an annual income of $197,144 for a family of four. However, West Des Moines contains both very wealthy and poor people as well.

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What is the richest neighborhood in Iowa City? ›

Most expensive Iowa City neighborhoods
  • University of Iowa.
  • Manville Heights / Normandy.
  • Walnut Ridge / Southwest Estates.
  • University Heights.
  • Miller Orchard.
  • Northside and Goosetown / City Center.
  • Peninsula Area.
  • Morningside-Glendale.

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Is West Des Moines expensive? ›

The cost of living in West Des Moines is 87.2% of the national average.

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Where is the place with the lowest cost of living? ›

Take a look at the 10 cheapest states to live in for 2022.
  1. Mississippi. Coming in as the cheapest state to live in in the United States is Mississippi with a cost of living index score of 83.3. ...
  2. Kansas. ...
  3. Alabama. ...
  4. Oklahoma. ...
  5. Georgia. ...
  6. Tennessee. ...
  7. Missouri. ...
  8. Iowa.
Mar 31, 2023

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Is Iowa a cheap state to live in? ›

The cost of living in Iowa is 9% lower than the national average. Housing is 28% lower than the national average, while utilities are 6% lower. When it comes to basic necessities such as food and clothing, groceries are around 4% lower than in the rest of the country, while clothing costs 4% lower.

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Is Iowa a good place for retirees? ›

Low cost of living – Iowa is easy on your monthly budget. The state boasts a cost of living that's nearly 11 percent below the national average. It has the second-lowest unemployment rate, and the median home cost is around $115,000. Safe space – You can rest easy in Iowa.

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Does Iowa have cheap housing? ›

Across Iowa, there is a shortage of rental homes affordable and available to extremely low income households (ELI), whose incomes are at or below the poverty guideline or 30% of their area median income (AMI).

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What is the cheapest state to retire in 2023? ›

Rather, Alabama is the most affordable state to retire in, according to WalletHub's “2023 Best States to Retire.” The analysis compared all 50 states across three key categories: health care, quality of life and affordability.

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Where is the cheapest warm place to retire? ›

8 Surprisingly Affordable Cities With Great Weather for Retirees
  • Tarboro, North Carolina. ...
  • Melbourne, Florida. ...
  • Lakeland, Florida. ...
  • Mountain Home, Arkansas. ...
  • Mount Airy, North Carolina. ...
  • Kingsport, Tennessee. ...
  • Roanoke, Virginia. ...
  • College Station, Texas.
Jan 26, 2023

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How much money do I need to live comfortably in Iowa? ›

Most of these supports base eligibility and benefit levels on a ratio of income to the federal poverty level (FPL). The FPL for a family of three in 2021 was $21,960. [2] A self-sufficiency wage in Iowa is about 200 percent to 250 percent of, or twice to 2½ times, the official federal poverty guideline (Figure 8).

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What is the best state to live over 50? ›

The best states to retire, based on what people really want
RankStateOverall weighted score
1Vermont100.0
2Maine99.3
3New Hampshire89.1
4Kentucky79.1
16 more rows
Jun 13, 2023

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What state is best financially to retire to? ›

1 state to retire for high quality of life: Massachusetts. Massachusetts is the best state for retirees based on the quality of life. While the state ranked in the bottom half of the list for affordability, it scored top marks for health care, coming in at second place.

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Do seniors pay state income tax in Iowa? ›

Iowa is tax-friendly. Social Security benefits are exempt from the Iowa state income tax. For tax year 2022 (which you file in 2023), other forms of retirement income are taxed, but seniors are eligible for a deduction of up to $6,000 on that income, or $12,000 if they file jointly.

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What is low income in Iowa? ›

LIHEAP (Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program) Income Guidelines
Size of HouseholdAnnual Gross Income* **
1$27,180
2$36,620
3$46,060
4$55,500
4 more rows

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What city is the least affordable to buy a home? ›

Top 10 Least Affordable Cities for Home Buyers
  • Santa Monica, California.
  • Glendale, California.
  • Burbank, California.
  • Los Angeles, California.
  • Boulder, Colorado.
  • Pasadena, California.
  • New York, New York.
  • San Francisco, California.
May 24, 2023

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What state has the most affordable housing right now? ›

1. West Virginia. With a Zillow Home Value Index of $146,578, West Virginia is the most affordable state to buy a house in the US. Despite its low home prices, the state boasts natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities, making it an attractive option for homebuyers on a budget.

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