Moving from Des Moines to Bridgeport (2026)

Bridgeport has a COL index of 112 vs 87 for Des Moines (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 29% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$785 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
87112
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,200$1,850
per month
State tax
5.7%7%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,384$4,303
per month

Salary needed in Bridgeport to match your Des Moines lifestyle

Based on the 29% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in Des MoinesEquivalent in Bridgeport
$40K$51,494
$50K$64,368
$60K$77,241
$75K$96,552
$80K$102,989
$100K$128,736
$120K$154,483
$150K$193,103

Monthly budget at $75K — Des Moines vs Bridgeport

ExpenseDes MoinesBridgeport
Monthly take-home$4,384$4,303
1BR rent$1,200$1,850
Groceries$365$410
Transport$50$85
Utilities$155$200
Internet$60$70
Left after essentials$2,554$1,688

Frequently asked questions

Is Bridgeport cheaper than Des Moines?

No. Bridgeport has a cost of living index of 112 vs 87 for Des Moines (100 = US average). That's about 29% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Des Moines to Bridgeport?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Bridgeport run about $785/month more than Des Moines. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in Bridgeport to match my Des Moines lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Des Moines, you'd need roughly $96,552/year in Bridgeport. 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