Cost of Living in West Des Moines, IA
Cost indexes, living wages, and fair market rents — 2024 Data
Cost of Living Overview
Overall Index
130.7
100 = national avg
+30.7 vs national average
Living Wage (1 Adult)
$57,489
per year
Living Wage (Family of 4)
$135,882
per year
Cost Index by Category
Housing147.0
Food114.9
Transportation129.8
Healthcare111.9
Utilities118.3
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 West Des Moines is 130.7, which is 30.7% above the national average. Housing costs are above the national average at an index of 147.0. A single adult needs to earn approximately $57,489 per year to cover basic expenses.