Performance
Score Breakdown
Vancouver
Des Moines
Livability
Affordability
Business
Growth
Expenses
Cost of Living
Des Moines is the more affordable option overall — monthly living expenses run approximately
38% higher compared to Vancouver.
Housing costs are a major driver: Vancouver's average rent is
283% higher than Des Moines's.
| Metric | Vancouver | Des Moines | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Rent | $2,850 | $744 | +283% |
| Groceries | $450 | $600 | -25% |
| Utilities | $180 | $150 | +20% |
| Transport | $120 | $800 | -85% |
| Healthcare | $250 | $500 | -50% |
| Monthly Total | $3,850 | $2,794 | +38% |
| Cost Index | 133 | 92 | out of 100 |
Income
Salary & Income
Vancouver offers 33% higher average salaries.
However, when adjusted for local cost of living, Des Moines delivers stronger purchasing power —
meaning your dollar stretches further day-to-day.
The minimum comfortable salary in Vancouver is estimated at
$90,480 vs $45,000 in Des Moines.
| Metric | Vancouver | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Average Salary | $72,406 | $54,311 |
| Salary Needed | $90,480 | $45,000 |
| Purchasing Power | 54,441 idx | 59,034 idx |
| Household Income | $82,000 | $63,212 |
Weather
Climate Comparison
Both cities share a similar average temperature, within 0°F of each other.
| Metric | Vancouver | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Temp | °F | °F |
| Summer High | °F | °F |
| Winter Low | °F | °F |
| Rainfall | in | in |
| Snowfall | in | in |
| Sunny Days | ||
| Humidity | 65.00% | 64.00% |
Mobility
Commute & Transport
Des Moines has the shorter commute — saving residents roughly
4,000 minutes (67 hours) per year compared to Vancouver.
Vancouver scores higher for public transit, making it the better choice for car-free living.
For walkability, Vancouver leads — a better score here means more amenities reachable on foot.
| Metric | Vancouver | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Commute Time | 28 min | 20 min |
| Transit Score | 55.0/10 | 30.0/10 |
| Walkability | 60.0/10 | 50.0/10 |
| Traffic Index | 45.00 | 134.40 |
| Car Dependency | Medium | High |
Population
Economy & Demographics
Vancouver is the larger city
— approximately 12.8x the population of Des Moines.
From a growth perspective, Des Moines is expanding faster, signaling stronger demand for housing, jobs, and services.
On the employment side, Des Moines has a lower unemployment rate, reflecting a tighter and more competitive job market.
| Metric | Vancouver | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,733,000 | 214,237 |
| Pop. Growth | 0.92% | 1.20% |
| Median Age | 38.0 | 34.4 |
| Unemployment | 6.91% | 4.20% |
| GDP | $0.0B | $34.1B |
At a Glance
Pros & Cons
Vancouver
Advantages
Vancouver offers a high quality of life due to its natural beauty and urban amenities.
The city has a diverse and growing economy, particularly in technology and trade.
Public transportation is extensive and efficient, reducing the need for car ownership.
Vancouver's mild climate allows for year-round outdoor activities.
The city is highly walkable and bike-friendly, promoting an active lifestyle.
Drawbacks
The cost of living, especially housing, is exceptionally high.
Average rent in Vancouver is 33% above the national average.
Median home prices often outstrip median household incomes, making homeownership challenging.
Winters are characterized by frequent rain and cloudy skies.
Traffic congestion can be a significant issue during peak hours.
Des Moines
Explore
Dive Deeper
Key figures side by side — see which city wins each category at a glance.
Vancouver
#4British Columbia, Canada
72.0 / 100 overall
Avg Rent
$2,850
Avg Salary
$72,406
Cost Index
133
Commute
28 min
Transit Score
55.0/10
Walkability
60.0/10
Sunny Days
/yr
Avg Temp
°F
Pop. Growth
0.92%
Unemployment
6.91%
Livability
74
Business
68
Des Moines
#14Iowa, USA
75.0 / 100 overall
Avg Rent
$744
Avg Salary
$54,311
Cost Index
92
Commute
20 min
Transit Score
30.0/10
Walkability
50.0/10
Sunny Days
/yr
Avg Temp
°F
Pop. Growth
1.20%
Unemployment
4.20%
Livability
85
Business
80
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