Des Moines, IA vs St. Cloud, 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 | St. Cloud | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living | 75 | 78 | Des Moines |
| Housing | 53 ($738) | 61 ($704) | Des Moines |
| Transportation | 104 ($3.50) | 106 ($3.50) | Des Moines |
| Food & groceries | 86 ($353) | 82 ($336) | St. Cloud |
| Utilities | 77 ($95) | 81 ($110) | Des Moines |
| Healthcare | 77 ($69) | 81 ($79) | 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 St. Cloud, MN cheaper to live in?
Des Moines, IA is cheaper overall by about 3 index points (Des Moines, IA: 75, St. Cloud, MN: 78; 100 = US national average).
What salary do I need in Des Moines, IA vs St. Cloud, MN?
A single adult needs roughly $26,250/year in Des Moines, IA and $27,300/year in St. Cloud, MN to cover basic living costs.