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Des Moines vs Houston

United States vs United States · 3,024 km apart

Des Moines

United States

$1,110

single / month

Cheaper overall
VS

Houston

United States

$1,635

single / month

Category Breakdown (USD)

ExpenseDes MoinesHoustonCheaper
Meal at an inexpensive restaurant$10.13$14.40Des Moines
Three-course meal for two, mid-range$40.50$57.60Des Moines
Cappuccino$3.04$4.32Des Moines
Monthly groceries (single person)$230$326Des Moines
Monthly public transport pass$37.13$52.80Des Moines
Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment$97.88$139Des Moines
Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited)$28.35$40.32Des Moines
Fitness club membership$28.35$40.32Des Moines
Cinema ticket$7.43$10.56Des Moines
One-bedroom apartment in city centre$625$971Des Moines
One-bedroom apartment outside centre$435$675Des Moines
Three-bedroom apartment in city centre$1,304$2,026Des Moines
Total single-person budget$1,110$1,635Des Moines
Average net salary$3,510$4,992

Verdict

Des Moines is cheaper overall. A single-person monthly budget in Des Moines runs about $1,110 versus $1,635 in Houston — a difference of roughly 47%.

Salary-adjusted, Houston leaves more disposable income after basic expenses. Both figures are model estimates — see each city page for local-currency detail.

Full cost of living in Des Moines  ·  Full cost of living in Houston

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Des Moines cheaper than Houston?
Yes. A single person spends an estimated $1,110 per month in Des Moines versus $1,635 in Houston — about 47% less.
How far is Des Moines from Houston?
The straight-line distance between Des Moines and Houston is approximately 3,024 km (1,879 miles).
Which city has better salaries, Des Moines or Houston?
The estimated average net salary is $3,510 in Des Moines and $4,992 in Houston. After living costs, a single person keeps roughly $2,400 in Des Moines versus $3,357 in Houston per month.