Des Moines vs Akron for Families (2026)
A family-focused comparison of housing, income, taxes, and overall affordability in Des Moines, IA vs Akron, OH.
- 2BR rent: $1,550/mo in Akron vs $1,600/mo — 3% difference
- More affordable homeownership in Akron: $205K median vs $255K
- Higher median household income in Des Moines: $62K/yr vs $50K
Family cost comparison
| Metric | Des Moines Iowa | Akron Ohio |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR rent/month | $1,600 | $1,550Better |
| Median home price | $255K | $205KBetter |
| Median household income | $62KBetter | $50K |
| Est. childcare/month | $1,131 | $1,092Better |
| State income tax | 5.7% | 3.5%Better |
| Sales tax (combined) | 6.9%Better | 7.2% |
Frequently asked questions
Which city is better for raising a family — Des Moines or Akron?
Based on housing costs, income, and taxes, Akron scores slightly better for families overall. Akron has lower 2-bedroom rents, Akron is more affordable for homebuyers, though both cities have strong family communities.
What is the average 2-bedroom rent in Des Moines vs Akron?
As of Q1 2026, median 2BR rent is $1,600/month in Des Moines and $1,550/month in Akron. Akron is 3% cheaper for a 2-bedroom apartment.
Can a family afford to buy a home in Des Moines or Akron?
The price-to-income ratio in Des Moines is 4.1× ($255K home, $62K income) vs 4.1× in Akron. A ratio below 3× is generally considered affordable. Akron is more achievable for first-time family homebuyers.
How much does childcare cost in Des Moines vs Akron?
Based on cost-of-living indices, estimated childcare (infant/toddler) runs approximately $1,131/month in Des Moines and $1,092/month in Akron. These are estimates — actual costs vary by provider and program type.
Which city has lower taxes for families?
Des Moines has a 5.7% state income tax rate vs Akron's 3.5% rate. For a dual-income family earning $120K combined, the difference can mean $132+/month in take-home.
Childcare estimates based on national average scaled by COL index. Data: Zillow, BLS, Numbeo, Tax Foundation · Q1 2026
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