Des Moines, IA vs Waterloo, IA: Cost of Living Comparison
Waterloo has the lower overall cost of living. (100 = US national average)
Category-by-Category Comparison
| Category | Des Moines | Waterloo | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living | 75 | 68 | Waterloo |
| Housing | 53 ($738) | 43 ($627) | Waterloo |
| Transportation | 104 ($3.50) | 106 ($3.50) | Des Moines |
| Food & groceries | 86 ($353) | 75 ($308) | Waterloo |
| Utilities | 77 ($95) | 72 ($77) | Waterloo |
| Healthcare | 77 ($69) | 72 ($56) | Waterloo |
| Median annual wage | 100 ($48,540) | 100 ($48,540) | Tie |
Index 100 = US national average. Lower = cheaper. For wage, higher = better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Des Moines, IA or Waterloo, IA cheaper to live in?
Waterloo, IA is cheaper overall by about 7 index points (Des Moines, IA: 75, Waterloo, IA: 68; 100 = US national average).
What salary do I need in Des Moines, IA vs Waterloo, IA?
A single adult needs roughly $26,250/year in Des Moines, IA and $23,800/year in Waterloo, IA to cover basic living costs.