Cost of Living in Des Moines, IA
Cost indexes, living wages, and fair market rents — 2024 Data
Cost of Living Overview
Overall Index
104.6
100 = national avg
+4.6 vs national average
Living Wage (1 Adult)
$46,025
per year
Living Wage (Family of 4)
$108,786
per year
Cost Index by Category
Housing115.1
Food98.9
Transportation97.8
Healthcare99.1
Utilities102.4
100 = national average. Higher = more expensive.
Fair Market Rent
Source: HUD1 Bedroom
$1,109
per month
2 Bedroom
$1,318
per month
The overall cost of living index in Des Moines is 104.6, which is 4.6% above the national average. Housing costs are above the national average at an index of 115.1. A single adult needs to earn approximately $46,025 per year to cover basic expenses.