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Des Moines, IA, United States
Capital City

Follows United States Residency Rules. Check Digital Nomad & Retiree Pathways →
Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$2,250
Retiree Score
59.3
Safety Index
64.2
Healthcare
—

With a population of just 214,133, Des Moines may seem like a sleepy Midwest town, but don't be fooled - this city is the insurance capital of the country and a hub for finance. While the bureaucracy can be a "persistent headache," the climate offers both pros (pleasant falls) and cons (brutally cold winters). Overall, Des Moines is best suited for those drawn to its booming economy and small-town charm.

Can I afford Des Moines, IA?

$

Des Moines, IA

You could save

750/mo

Savings Rate25%

Monthly Costs

Rent $1,250
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$1,000

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
25/100
Retiree Score
(i)
50/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
50/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
Meets United States Digital Nomad Visa Income Rule.
64
Safety
—
Healthcare
50
Walkability
50
Nomad

Grocery Basket

Milk (1L) $1
Bread (loaf) *$2
Eggs (12) $4
Rice (1kg) *$5
Chicken (1kg) *$12

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Eating Out

Meal (Inexpensive) *$20
Meal (Mid-range) $100
Cappuccino $5
Water (0.33L) *$2

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $117
Mobile Plan (mo) $60
Gym (mo) *$125
Cinema Ticket $10

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $1,000
1BR Outside (mo) *$1,084
3BR Center (mo) $1,800
3BR Outside (mo) *$1,782

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Widely Spoken
Expat Community
Medium
Top Neighborhoods
Waterbury, Sherman Hill
Best For
families, professionals

Expat Life Notes

A major insurance hub offering high safety, affordability, and a quiet midwestern life.

Pros

  • ✓ Safe and affordable housing
  • ✓ Strong job market (insurance)
  • ✓ Native English

Cons

  • ✗ Quiet nightlife
  • ✗ Cold winters
  • ✗ Car dependency

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
—
Temperature
—
Annual Rainfall
—
Coworking Spaces
—
Best Months to Visit
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Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Des Moines, IA

Click any question to expand the answer.

Des Moines, IA has a population of approximately 214,133 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $3,125 per month in Des Moines, IA, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $1250/month.

Des Moines, IA is considered relatively safe, with a safety index of 64.2. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

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