Cost of Living Comparison 2026
Data: HUD rent estimates, BLS cost of living
You'd spend $1.3K/month more in St. Paul, MN
$150.0K in your current city equals $165.0K in St. Paul, MN
Based on monthly living costs (rent, groceries, utilities, transport, healthcare). Home purchase prices shown separately below.
Des Moines, IA
St. Paul, MN
Des Moines, IA
The Hawkeye State
Located in Iowa, this city has a population of 214K residents.
St. Paul, MN
The North Star State
Located in Minnesota, this city has a population of 304K residents.
Cost Breakdown by Category
Annual spending: Des Moines, IA vs St. Paul, MN
| Category | Des Moines, IA | St. Paul, MN | Difference | Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Housing | $2,079/mo | $2,703/mo | ↑ $624more | 30.0% |
Transportation | $1,243/mo | $1,380/mo | ↑ $137more | 11.0% |
Groceries | $909/mo | $1,029/mo | ↑ $120more | 13.2% |
Other | $1,607/mo | $1,724/mo | ↑ $117more | 7.3% |
Healthcare | $682/mo | $756/mo | ↑ $74.35more | 10.9% |
All Utilities | $470/mo | $508/mo | ↑ $38.25more | 8.1% |
🏠Rent Comparison
1BR range: $960–$1,150/mo
1BR range: $1,250–$1,680/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
Source: Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI), January 2026
Tax Comparison
Annual tax burden comparison at $150.0K salary
Des Moines, IA
St. Paul, MN
Additional Tax Information
Des Moines, IA Tax Rates
St. Paul, MN 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 Minnesota on TaxTakeHome.com
Where your money goes further
Cities cheaper than Des Moines, IA on a $150.0K salary
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