Moving from Colorado Springs to Des Moines (2026)
Des Moines has a COL index of 87 vs 95 for Colorado Springs (100 = US average). You'd pay about 8% less for the same lifestyle.
Key differences
Salary needed in Des Moines to match your Colorado Springs lifestyle
Based on the 8% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Colorado Springs | Equivalent in Des Moines |
|---|---|
| $40K | $36,632 |
| $50K | $45,789 |
| $60K | $54,947 |
| $75K | $68,684 |
| $80K | $73,263 |
| $100K | $91,579 |
| $120K | $109,895 |
| $150K | $137,368 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Colorado Springs vs Des Moines
| Expense | Colorado Springs | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,466 | $4,384 |
| 1BR rent | $1,500 | $1,200 |
| Groceries | $372 | $365 |
| Transport | $55 | $50 |
| Utilities | $145 | $155 |
| Internet | $65 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $2,329 | $2,554 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Des Moines cheaper than Colorado Springs?
Yes. Des Moines has a cost of living index of 87 vs 95 for Colorado Springs (100 = US average). That's about 8% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Colorado Springs to Des Moines?
On a $75K salary, moving from Colorado Springs to Des Moines could save roughly $307/month on core expenses. That's ~$3,684/year.
What salary do I need in Des Moines to match my Colorado Springs lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Colorado Springs, you'd need roughly $68,684/year in Des Moines. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates at $75K. Zillow · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only