Cost of Living Comparison between Minnetonka, MN vs Des Moines, IA

Some stores like Smith's offer frequent discounts or loyalty programs that can save you even more at the checkout. Since groceries are an essential part of you cost of living, take advantage of discounts whenever you can. ( 2024-11-21 salary.com )

Des Moines, IA does not have a major sports team, but don’t worry, check out local colleges and high school sports schedules. These games usually have very cheap tickets and the spirit and enthusiasm of the crowd often makes up for the level of skill. ( 2024-11-21 salary.com )

The average cost of internet access in the U.S. is $66.20 per month. There are many providers and various packages that are offered, many that bundle internet, cable, and phone together. Pricing for various packages can vary a lot even in the same location. You should evaluate the options based on your usage and preferences and pick the best fit for your needs. One tip to reduce this cost and your overall cost of living, is to get cable service from another source like Direct TV, Netflix, Sling, Amazon Prime or others. ( 2024-11-21 salary.com )

The average cost of moving to another state is around $5,600 for a distance of 1,200 miles. This price can vary a lot if the distance is greater and depending on how much is being moved. Even if your employer is covering the cost of a move, there will still be costs that are not covered. A cost that typically occurs is that your existing furniture and accessories are either too large, too small, or not appropriate for your new home. You may find that after you move, you will need to purchase many new items for the new location, for example, window coverings, rugs, lighting, and outdoor gear. Make sure you budget for these types of expenses and include them in the first year’s cost of living at your new location. Finally, although there is no dollar cost, is the stress of moving, which will increase if you have children or pets. Make sure you prepare in advance for what additional TLC those kids and pets will need to have a good move. ( 2024-11-21 salary.com )

It is difficult to exactly predict the cost of child care in any city, which for parents, is a large part of the cost of living. There are different arrangements and lengths of time that are needed to care for a child, and costs may vary a lot depending on the services provided. Based on the state average, for Des Moines child care for a child up to 3 years could cost $9485 per year. Iowa, is ranked NO. 25 in annual cost of child care in the U.S. ( 2024-11-21 salary.com )

In Des Moines,IA, the median rent for a 1 bedroom apartment is $655, and for a 2 bedroom apartment is $806. In general, in the past year, rental costs in Des Moines have gone down by approximately 0.7%. Since rental expense makes up a significant part of the cost of living, you should consider this expense and how it might change when you calculate your cost of living in a new city. ( 2024-11-21 salary.com )

Looks for areas of Des Moines, Iowa where there is a large student population. In those areas you will be sure to find lots of free or cheap events to go to and plenty of cheap places to eat. Familiarize yourself with the places where students hang out, and take advantage of discounted or bargain prices, you are sure to be able to keep your cost of living reasonable. Look at the website for Des Moines, IA to find recommendations for activities that are available and unique to the area. ( 2024-11-21 salary.com )

The sales tax for Des Moines is 6%. This is the tax that you will pay on things that you buy. ( 2024-11-21 salary.com )

You could save up to $1,000 per year, depending on your location, by using public transport instead of driving. Not only will you reduce the stress of driving and finding a place to park once you reach your destination, your car and tires will last longer, and you will spend less on gas. A side benefit is that you may be able to relax, work, or read on the way to work, or get to know and chat with other commuters. Some employers offer employees reduced fee bus or transit passes, so check that out with your employer. ( 2024-11-21 salary.com )