Des Moines, IA vs Rochester, MN: Cost of Living Comparison
Des Moines has the lower overall cost of living. (100 = US national average)
Category-by-Category Comparison
| Category | Des Moines | Rochester | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living | 75 | 95 | Des Moines |
| Housing | 53 ($738) | 83 ($921) | Des Moines |
| Transportation | 104 ($3.50) | 100 ($3.50) | Rochester |
| Food & groceries | 86 ($353) | 118 ($484) | Des Moines |
| Utilities | 77 ($95) | 92 ($149) | Des Moines |
| Healthcare | 77 ($69) | 92 ($108) | Des Moines |
| Median annual wage | 100 ($48,540) | 117 ($56,920) | Des Moines |
Index 100 = US national average. Lower = cheaper. For wage, higher = better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Des Moines, IA or Rochester, MN cheaper to live in?
Des Moines, IA is cheaper overall by about 20 index points (Des Moines, IA: 75, Rochester, MN: 95; 100 = US national average).
What salary do I need in Des Moines, IA vs Rochester, MN?
A single adult needs roughly $26,250/year in Des Moines, IA and $33,250/year in Rochester, MN to cover basic living costs.