Quick answer: As of 2026, living in Des Moines costs approximately $2,101 per month for one person including rent. That is 30% above the $1,620 global median across the 340 cities in the Voyica Cost of Living Index 2026. Against its own region, where the median is $2,512, Des Moines is cheaper than typical for United States & Canada. A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages $1,235 per month, or $918 outside the centre. Housing therefore accounts for about 44% of a single person's total monthly cost here. A family of four should budget around $4,361 per month excluding rent. Day to day, an inexpensive restaurant meal runs about $20.00 and a monthly transit pass $58. For anyone weighing a longer stay, median internet speed is 303 Mbps and Des Moines scores 52/100 on safety (moderately safe). Actual costs vary with lifestyle, neighbourhood, and exchange rates; figures come from crowd-sourced price data last refreshed June 2026. See the full Cost of Living Index →
Des Moines is a city in United States, where a single person can expect to spend about $2,101 per month including rent, food, and local transport. A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages $1,235 per month, or $918 outside the centre. Internet is fast at around 303 Mbps median download speed. On safety, Des Moines scores 52/100 — moderately safe for residents and visitors. Expect summer highs near 87°F and winter highs around 32°F, with roughly 285 sunny days a year.
A single person should budget around $2,101 per month in Des Moines, covering rent, groceries, transport, and basic lifestyle costs. A family of four typically needs about $4,361 per month excluding rent.
How much is rent in Des Moines?
A one-bedroom apartment in central Des Moines averages $1,235 per month, dropping to about $918 outside the centre. A three-bedroom in the centre runs about $1,744.
Is Des Moines safe?
Des Moines scores 52/100 on safety, which is moderately safe. Tourist safety is rated 62/100.
How fast is the internet in Des Moines?
Median download speeds in Des Moines are around 303 Mbps — fast for remote work and video calls. There are roughly 28 coworking spaces in the city.
Does United States offer a digital nomad visa?
United States does not currently offer a dedicated digital nomad visa. US passport holders should check current entry requirements before traveling.
What is the weather like in Des Moines?
Des Moines sees summer highs around 87°F and winter highs near 32°F, with about 285 sunny days and 108 rainy days per year.
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