Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA Cost of Living & Economic Score
Federal Bureau of Economic Analysis cost-of-living and household-budget data for the Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA metropolitan statistical area.
Cost of living in Des Moines-West Des Moines
According to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, prices in the Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA metropolitan area run 12.0% below the U.S. average (Regional Price Parity index 88.0 on a base of 100). That puts Des Moines-West Des Moines among the most affordable metros nationally.
For broader state context — including state taxes, insurance, and energy costs that affect every Iowa household — see the Iowa state report.
Compare to similar-cost metros
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA?
The Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA metro area has a Regional Price Parity (RPP) of 88.0 (U.S.=100), meaning prices are 12.0% below the national average. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis.
Is Des Moines-West Des Moines an affordable place to live?
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA has an InflationRank score of 85/100 (grade B), reflecting above-average affordability relative to U.S. metros. The metro RPP of 88.0 compares to a U.S. baseline of 100.
How does Des Moines-West Des Moines compare to other cities for cost of living?
Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA has a cost-of-living index of 88.0 (U.S.=100), 12.0% below the national average. Similar-cost metros include El Paso, TX (RPP 88.0), Oklahoma City, OK (RPP 88.5).
About the InflationRank Score
The InflationRank Score is a proprietary 0–100 composite that summarizes a metro area's cost-of-living and economic conditions on a familiar A–F grading scale. The composite weighs cost level, inflation pressure, and income resilience, sourced from federal government datasets and reviewed annually as federal data refreshes.
Underlying data is drawn from authoritative federal economic agencies and public housing datasets. See full data sources →