Cost of Living Comparison 2026
Data: HUD rent estimates, BLS cost of living
You'd spend $163/month more in Des Moines, IA
$150.0K in your current city equals $152.0K in Des Moines, IA
Based on monthly living costs (rent, groceries, utilities, transport, healthcare). Home purchase prices shown separately below.
Sioux Falls, SD
Des Moines, IA
Sioux Falls, SD
The Mount Rushmore State
Located in South Dakota, this city has a population of 206K residents.
💡 Advantage: South Dakota has no state income tax!
Des Moines, IA
The Hawkeye State
Located in Iowa, this city has a population of 214K residents.
Cost Breakdown by Category
Annual spending: Sioux Falls, SD vs Des Moines, IA
| Category | Sioux Falls, SD | Des Moines, IA | Difference | Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Housing | $1,834/mo | $2,079/mo | ↑ $245more | 13.4% |
Transportation | $1,203/mo | $1,243/mo | ↑ $39.83more | 3.3% |
Other | $1,572/mo | $1,607/mo | ↑ $35.29more | 2.2% |
Groceries | $934/mo | $909/mo | ↓ $24.64less | 2.6% |
Healthcare | $671/mo | $682/mo | ↑ $11.01more | 1.6% |
All Utilities | $462/mo | $470/mo | ↑ $7.59more | 1.6% |
🏠Rent Comparison
1BR range: $880–$1,060/mo
1BR range: $960–$1,150/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 Des Moines are 18% less expensive than Sioux Falls
Source: Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI), January 2026
Tax Comparison
Annual tax burden comparison at $150.0K salary
Sioux Falls, SD
Des Moines, IA
Additional Tax Information
Sioux Falls, SD Tax Rates
Des Moines, IA 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 South Dakota and Iowa on TaxTakeHome.com
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