Cost of Living Comparison 2026
📍 West Des Moines, IA — ZIP-level rent data · COL adjusted from Des Moines, IA area
Numbers update automatically as you type
You'd spend $1.3K/month more in Austin, TX
$150.0K in your current city equals $165.5K in Austin, TX
Based on monthly living costs (rent, groceries, utilities, transport, healthcare). Home purchase prices shown separately below.
West Des Moines, IA
Austin, TX
West Des Moines, IA
The Hawkeye State
Located in Iowa, this city has a population of 72K 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: West Des Moines, IA vs Austin, TX
| Category | West Des Moines, IA | Austin, TX | Difference | Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
🏠Housing | $1,827/mo | $2,885/mo | ↑ $1,058more | 57.9% |
📦Other | $1,569/mo | $1,741/mo | ↑ $172more | 11.0% |
🏥Healthcare | $673/mo | $589/mo | ↓ $84.84less | 12.6% |
⚡All Utilities | $464/mo | $541/mo | ↑ $76.61more | 16.5% |
🚗Transportation | $1,214/mo | $1,284/mo | ↑ $70.32more | 5.8% |
🛒Groceries | $899/mo | $959/mo | ↑ $60.76more | 6.8% |
🏠Rent Comparison
1BR range: $1,070–$1,340/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 78% more expensive than West Des Moines
Source: Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI), January 2026
Tax Comparison
Annual tax burden comparison at $150.0K salary
West Des Moines, IA
Austin, TX
Additional Tax Information
West 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
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