salaryAbout the sameBased on official 2024 price levels from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis.
I need in Des Moines to live the same way.
🏠 Rent per month
$1,291
$1,266
🛏️ 2-bedroom rent
$1,126
$1,254
💵 Families earn per year
$49,666
$71,108
🔑 Buying a house
$158,800
$194,700
📊 Overall prices (U.S. = 100)
91.6
91.7
🏛️ Property tax per year
$997
$3,496
⚡ Electric bill per month
$175
$141
👥 People living there
198,173
212,421
Commute to work
20.8 min
19.5 min
College degree
31.1%
29.7%
Own their home
45.5%
60.5%
Below poverty line
24.7%
15%
Unemployment
5.8%
5.6%
Bottom line
- Pick Birmingham for cheaper 2-bedroom apartments, cheaper homes, a more educated workforce.
- Pick Des Moines for lower rent, higher incomes, shorter commutes and 2 more.
Pay for the same job
| Job | Birmingham | Des Moines | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dental Hygienist | $61,730 | $93,660 | +52% in Des Moines |
| Police Officer | $60,590 | $81,810 | +35% in Des Moines |
| HVAC Technician | $48,740 | $62,640 | +29% in Des Moines |
| Medical Assistant | $36,770 | $46,920 | +28% in Des Moines |
| Physician Assistant | $105,440 | $133,830 | +27% in Des Moines |
| Server (Waiter/Waitress) | $27,670 | $20,410 | -26% in Des Moines |
| Plumber | $60,090 | $75,040 | +25% in Des Moines |
| Nursing Assistant | $35,470 | $43,940 | +24% in Des Moines |
Frequently asked questions
Is Birmingham or Des Moines cheaper to live in?
Birmingham and Des Moines cost about the same once rent and everyday costs are combined.
What salary do I need in Des Moines to match $60,000 in Birmingham?
About $60,037 a year gives the same standard of living in Des Moines.
Where do people earn more, Birmingham or Des Moines?
The typical household earns $49,666 in Birmingham and $71,108 in Des Moines, 30% more in Des Moines.