Des Moines is 11% cheaperBased on official 2024 price levels from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis.
I need in Providence to live the same way.
🏠 Rent per month
$1,266
$1,964
🛏️ 2-bedroom rent
$1,254
$1,603
💵 Families earn per year
$71,108
$73,466
🔑 Buying a house
$194,700
$362,200
📊 Overall prices (U.S. = 100)
91.7
101.8
🏛️ Property tax per year
$3,496
$4,418
⚡ Electric bill per month
$141
$126
👥 People living there
212,421
191,767
Commute to work
19.5 min
25 min
College degree
29.7%
34.6%
Own their home
60.5%
41.4%
Below poverty line
15%
20.7%
Unemployment
5.6%
8.2%
Bottom line
- Pick Des Moines for lower rent, cheaper 2-bedroom apartments, cheaper homes and 3 more.
- Pick Providence for higher incomes, a more educated workforce.
Pay for the same job
| Job | Des Moines | Providence | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Server (Waiter/Waitress) | $20,410 | $35,750 | +75% in Providence |
| Elementary School Teacher | $61,650 | $86,720 | +41% in Providence |
| Registered Nurse | $78,630 | $99,880 | +27% in Providence |
| Computer Systems Analyst | $102,070 | $128,580 | +26% in Providence |
| Licensed Practical Nurse | $63,670 | $78,990 | +24% in Providence |
| Accountant | $79,290 | $95,020 | +20% in Providence |
| Electrician | $62,840 | $73,980 | +18% in Providence |
| Cashier | $29,640 | $34,540 | +17% in Providence |
Frequently asked questions
Is Des Moines or Providence cheaper to live in?
Des Moines is about 11% cheaper overall. Rent is $1,266 a month there versus $1,964 in Providence.
What salary do I need in Providence to match $60,000 in Des Moines?
About $66,590 a year gives the same standard of living in Providence.
Where do people earn more, Des Moines or Providence?
The typical household earns $71,108 in Des Moines and $73,466 in Providence, 3% more in Providence.