Moving from Des Moines to Sioux Falls (2026)
Sioux Falls has a COL index of 88 vs 87 for Des Moines (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 1% more for the same lifestyle.
Key differences
Salary needed in Sioux Falls to match your Des Moines lifestyle
Based on the 1% cost of living increase between the two cities.
| Your salary in Des Moines | Equivalent in Sioux Falls |
|---|---|
| $40K | $40,460 |
| $50K | $50,575 |
| $60K | $60,690 |
| $75K | $75,862 |
| $80K | $80,920 |
| $100K | $101,149 |
| $120K | $121,379 |
| $150K | $151,724 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Des Moines vs Sioux Falls
| Expense | Des Moines | Sioux Falls |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,384 | $4,741 |
| 1BR rent | $1,200 | $1,250 |
| Groceries | $365 | $365 |
| Transport | $50 | $42 |
| Utilities | $155 | $155 |
| Internet | $60 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $2,554 | $2,869 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Sioux Falls cheaper than Des Moines?
No. Sioux Falls has a cost of living index of 88 vs 87 for Des Moines (100 = US average). That's about 1% more expensive.
How much will I save moving from Des Moines to Sioux Falls?
On a $75K salary, core expenses in Sioux Falls run about $42/month more than Des Moines. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.
What salary do I need in Sioux Falls to match my Des Moines lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Des Moines, you'd need roughly $75,862/year in Sioux Falls. 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