Apple Valley, MN vs Des Moines, IA: Cost of Living Comparison
Des Moines has the lower overall cost of living. (100 = US national average)
Category-by-Category Comparison
| Category | Apple Valley | Des Moines | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living | 107 | 75 | Des Moines |
| Housing | 102 ($1,175) | 53 ($738) | Des Moines |
| Transportation | 101 ($3.50) | 104 ($3.50) | Apple Valley |
| Food & groceries | 133 ($545) | 86 ($353) | Des Moines |
| Utilities | 101 ($184) | 77 ($95) | Des Moines |
| Healthcare | 101 ($133) | 77 ($69) | Des Moines |
| Median annual wage | 117 ($56,920) | 100 ($48,540) | Des Moines |
Index 100 = US national average. Lower = cheaper. For wage, higher = better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Apple Valley, MN or Des Moines, IA cheaper to live in?
Des Moines, IA is cheaper overall by about 32 index points (Apple Valley, MN: 107, Des Moines, IA: 75; 100 = US national average).
What salary do I need in Apple Valley, MN vs Des Moines, IA?
A single adult needs roughly $37,450/year in Apple Valley, MN and $26,250/year in Des Moines, IA to cover basic living costs.