Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
44% cheaper
Des Moines is 44% more affordable than San Diego. A $75,000 salary in San Diego is equivalent to $41,719 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 · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Des Moines has a housing index of 74 while San Diego sits at 248 (national average = 100). The median home in Des Moines costs $210,000 compared to $800,000 in San Diego, a difference of $590,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,100 in Des Moines versus $2,500 in San Diego.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Des Moines scores 96 while San Diego scores 107.
Healthcare costs in Des Moines (97) are lower than San Diego (107). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Des Moines is $55,958 compared to $79,646 in San Diego. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Des Moines.
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