Des Moines, IA vs Omaha, 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 | Omaha | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living | 75 | 83 | Des Moines |
| Housing | 53 ($738) | 66 ($805) | Des Moines |
| Transportation | 104 ($3.50) | 101 ($3.50) | Omaha |
| Food & groceries | 86 ($353) | 97 ($398) | Des Moines |
| Utilities | 77 ($95) | 83 ($119) | Des Moines |
| Healthcare | 77 ($69) | 83 ($86) | 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 Omaha, NE cheaper to live in?
Des Moines, IA is cheaper overall by about 8 index points (Des Moines, IA: 75, Omaha, NE: 83; 100 = US national average).
What salary do I need in Des Moines, IA vs Omaha, NE?
A single adult needs roughly $26,250/year in Des Moines, IA and $29,050/year in Omaha, NE to cover basic living costs.