Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
25% cheaper
Des Moines is 25% more affordable than New Haven. A $75,000 salary in New Haven is equivalent to $56,568 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 · Connecticut salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Des Moines has a housing index of 74 while New Haven sits at 137 (national average = 100). The median home in Des Moines costs $210,000 compared to $250,000 in New Haven, a difference of $40,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,100 in Des Moines versus $1,400 in New Haven.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Des Moines scores 96 while New Haven scores 106.
Healthcare costs in Des Moines (97) are lower than New Haven (114).
Median household income in Des Moines is $55,958 compared to $42,158 in New Haven. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Des Moines.
Amazon affiliate links