Cost of Living Comparison 2026
Numbers update automatically as you type
You'd spend $1.1K/month more in Austin, TX
$150.0K in your current city equals $163.0K in Austin, TX
Based on monthly living costs (rent, groceries, utilities, transport, healthcare). Home purchase prices shown separately below.
Des Moines, IA
Austin, TX
Des Moines, IA
The Hawkeye State
Located in Iowa, this city has a population of 214K residents.
Austin, TX
The Lone Star State
Notable Facts
- •Live music capital
- •Major tech hub
- •SXSW festival city
Major Industries
Cost Breakdown by Category
Annual spending: Des Moines, IA vs Austin, TX
| Category | Des Moines, IA | Austin, TX | Difference | Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
🏠Housing | $2,079/mo | $2,885/mo | ↑ $806more | 38.8% |
📦Other | $1,607/mo | $1,741/mo | ↑ $134more | 8.3% |
🏥Healthcare | $682/mo | $589/mo | ↓ $92.94less | 13.6% |
⚡All Utilities | $470/mo | $541/mo | ↑ $71.03more | 15.1% |
🛒Groceries | $909/mo | $959/mo | ↑ $49.96more | 5.5% |
🚗Transportation | $1,243/mo | $1,284/mo | ↑ $40.98more | 3.3% |
🏠Rent Comparison
1BR range: $960–$1,150/mo
1BR range: $1,490–$2,350/mo
💡 Note: Rent prices are based on HUD Fair Market Rent data and represent median costs. Actual prices vary by neighborhood, amenities, and condition. Source: HUD Small Area Fair Market Rents FY2026.
Home Values
Homes in Austin are 145% more expensive than Des Moines
Source: Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI), January 2026
Tax Comparison
Annual tax burden comparison at $150.0K salary
Des Moines, IA
Austin, TX
Additional Tax Information
Des Moines, IA Tax Rates
Austin, TX Tax Rates
💡 Note: Tax calculations are estimates based on 2024/2025 tax brackets for single filers with standard deduction. Actual taxes may vary based on filing status, deductions, credits, and local variations.
Environment
💰 See how taxes change too — compare take-home pay between Iowa and Texas on TaxTakeHome.com
Where your money goes further
Cities cheaper than Des Moines, IA on a $150.0K salary
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