Can I Afford to Live in Des Moines vs Salem on $150K?
Here's how a $150K/year salary plays out in both cities after taxes, rent, and core living expenses — based on Q1 2026 data.
Monthly budget breakdown
| Expense | Des Moines IA | Salem OR |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home (est.) | $8,231 | $7,706 |
| 1BR rent | $1,200 | $1,450 |
| Groceries (est.) | $365 | $380 |
| Transport (est.) | $50 | $72 |
| Utilities | $155 | $125 |
| Internet | $60 | $63 |
| Left after essentials | $6,401/month | $5,616/month |
Frequently asked questions
Is $150K a good salary in Des Moines?
At $150K/year in Des Moines, your estimated monthly take-home is $8,231. With 1BR rent around $1,200/month, rent takes up 15% of your take-home. That's considered very comfortable.
Is $150K a good salary in Salem?
At $150K/year in Salem, your estimated monthly take-home is $7,706. With 1BR rent around $1,450/month, rent takes up 19% of your take-home. That's considered very comfortable.
Which city is more affordable on a $150K salary?
Des Moines leaves you with more money after core expenses — $6,401/month vs $5,616/month in Salem.
Can I afford to live alone in Des Moines on $150K?
Yes. At $150K in Des Moines, rent takes 15% of your take-home, leaving $6,401/month after essentials. Most financial planners recommend keeping rent below 30%.
See the full cost-of-living comparison
Rent, groceries, taxes, transportation, and more — side by side.
Take-home estimates use simplified federal/state brackets and do not account for pre-tax deductions, 401(k), or local taxes. Data: Zillow, BLS, Numbeo · Q1 2026 · For general guidance only