Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
12% cheaper
Des Moines is 12% more affordable than Las Vegas. A $75,000 salary in Las Vegas is equivalent to $66,089 in Des Moines.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Iowa salaries · Nevada salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Des Moines has a housing index of 74 while Las Vegas sits at 106 (national average = 100). The median home in Des Moines costs $210,000 compared to $350,000 in Las Vegas, a difference of $140,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,100 in Des Moines versus $1,400 in Las Vegas.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Des Moines scores 96 while Las Vegas scores 101. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Des Moines (97) are higher than Las Vegas (96). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Des Moines is $55,958 compared to $56,415 in Las Vegas. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Des Moines.
Amazon affiliate links