Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
32% cheaper
Des Moines is 32% more affordable than Portland. A $75,000 salary in Portland is equivalent to $51,346 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 · Oregon salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Des Moines has a housing index of 74 while Portland sits at 168 (national average = 100). The median home in Des Moines costs $210,000 compared to $480,000 in Portland, a difference of $270,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,100 in Des Moines versus $1,800 in Portland.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Des Moines scores 96 while Portland scores 105. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Des Moines (97) are lower than Portland (108).
Median household income in Des Moines is $55,958 compared to $71,005 in Portland. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Des Moines.
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