Des Moines, IA vs Lincoln, NE: Cost of Living Comparison
Des Moines has the lower overall cost of living. (100 = US national average)
Category-by-Category Comparison
| Category | Des Moines | Lincoln | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living | 75 | 84 | Des Moines |
| Housing | 53 ($738) | 71 ($732) | Des Moines |
| Transportation | 104 ($3.50) | 99 ($3.50) | Lincoln |
| Food & groceries | 86 ($353) | 94 ($385) | Des Moines |
| Utilities | 77 ($95) | 86 ($128) | Des Moines |
| Healthcare | 77 ($69) | 86 ($92) | Des Moines |
| Median annual wage | 100 ($48,540) | 101 ($48,980) | Des Moines |
Index 100 = US national average. Lower = cheaper. For wage, higher = better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Des Moines, IA or Lincoln, NE cheaper to live in?
Des Moines, IA is cheaper overall by about 9 index points (Des Moines, IA: 75, Lincoln, NE: 84; 100 = US national average).
What salary do I need in Des Moines, IA vs Lincoln, NE?
A single adult needs roughly $26,250/year in Des Moines, IA and $29,400/year in Lincoln, NE to cover basic living costs.