Moving from Midland to Des Moines (2026)
Des Moines has a COL index of 87 vs 93 for Midland (100 = US average). You'd pay about 6% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$13/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
9387
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,200$1,200
per month
State tax
None5.7%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,741$4,384
per month
Salary needed in Des Moines to match your Midland lifestyle
Based on the 6% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Midland | Equivalent in Des Moines |
|---|---|
| $40K | $37,419 |
| $50K | $46,774 |
| $60K | $56,129 |
| $75K | $70,161 |
| $80K | $74,839 |
| $100K | $93,548 |
| $120K | $112,258 |
| $150K | $140,323 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Midland vs Des Moines
| Expense | Midland | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,741 | $4,384 |
| 1BR rent | $1,200 | $1,200 |
| Groceries | $365 | $365 |
| Transport | $35 | $50 |
| Utilities | $178 | $155 |
| Internet | $65 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $2,898 | $2,554 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Des Moines cheaper than Midland?
Yes. Des Moines has a cost of living index of 87 vs 93 for Midland (100 = US average). That's about 6% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Midland to Des Moines?
On a $75K salary, moving from Midland to Des Moines could save roughly $13/month on core expenses. That's ~$156/year.
What salary do I need in Des Moines to match my Midland lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Midland, you'd need roughly $70,161/year in Des Moines. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Des Moines to MidlandMidland vs Des Moines — full comparisonMidland cost of livingDes Moines cost of living
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