Des Moines, IA vs St. Paul, 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. Paul | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living | 75 | 90 | Des Moines |
| Housing | 53 ($738) | 80 ($874) | Des Moines |
| Transportation | 104 ($3.50) | 103 ($3.50) | St. Paul |
| Food & groceries | 86 ($353) | 98 ($402) | Des Moines |
| Utilities | 77 ($95) | 90 ($144) | Des Moines |
| Healthcare | 77 ($69) | 90 ($104) | 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. Paul, MN cheaper to live in?
Des Moines, IA is cheaper overall by about 15 index points (Des Moines, IA: 75, St. Paul, MN: 90; 100 = US national average).
What salary do I need in Des Moines, IA vs St. Paul, MN?
A single adult needs roughly $26,250/year in Des Moines, IA and $31,500/year in St. Paul, MN to cover basic living costs.