Category / Metric	West Des Moines	Houston
Financial Overview
Median Income	$83,637	$62,637
Unemployment Rate	3.5%	4.8%
Housing Market
Median Home Price	$316,000	$335,000
Price per SqFt	$199	$175
Monthly Rent (1BR)	$899	$1,135
Housing Cost Index	86.1	106.5
Cost of Living
Groceries Index	95.1	103.4
Gas Price (Gallon)	$3.40	$2.35
Safety & Lifestyle
Violent Crime (per 100k)	301.8	912.4
Bachelor's Degree+	54.8%	37.1%
Air Quality (AQI)	31	44

Houston vs. West Des Moines: The Ultimate Relocation Showdown

You're standing at a crossroads. On one side, you have the sprawling, sun-baked metropolis of Houston, Texas—a city of massive opportunity, endless diversity, and legendary heat. On the other, you have West Des Moines, Iowa—a polished, fast-growing suburb of a state capital, promising Midwestern charm, safety, and a quieter pace.

Choosing between them isn't just about picking a dot on a map; it's about picking a lifestyle. As your Relocation Expert, I'm here to cut through the noise and give you the unvarnished truth. We'll crunch the numbers, weigh the vibes, and find out which city truly deserves your next chapter. Let's get into it.

The Vibe Check: Big City Swagger vs. Suburban Sanctuary

Houston is a beast. It’s the fourth-largest city in the U.S. for a reason. This isn't a place you just live in; it's a place you experience. The culture is a gumbo of international food, world-class museums, a booming arts scene, and a fierce work ethic. It’s fast-paced, diverse, and relentlessly energetic. You can find a top-tier restaurant at 1 AM, catch a rocket launch from NASA, or get lost in a 1,000-acre park. But with great power comes great sprawl. You'll drive everywhere, and the "small-town feel" is nonexistent unless you carve out a specific neighborhood. This city is for the ambitious, the adventurous, and those who thrive on concrete and possibility.

West Des Moines, on the other hand, is the epitome of refined suburban living. It’s not a "small town"—it's a high-achieving, independent-minded suburb that consistently ranks as one of the best places to live in the Midwest. The vibe is clean, orderly, and community-focused. Think excellent schools, manicured lawns, and a strong sense of local pride. You're minutes from the cultural and political energy of downtown Des Moines, but you can come home to a quiet street. It's for families seeking stability, professionals who want a manageable commute, and anyone who prefers four distinct seasons over year-round humidity.

Who is each city for?

Houston is for the go-getter who wants endless options, doesn’t mind the grind, and prioritizes career and cultural access over a slow pace.
West Des Moines is for the planner who values safety, community, and financial efficiency, and wants a high quality of life without the chaos of a mega-city.

The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Salary Feel Richer?

This is where the rubber meets the road. You might make $100,000 in both places, but your purchasing power will feel worlds apart. Let's break down the cost of living.

Cost of Living Head-to-Head

Category	Houston	West Des Moines	Winner (Lower Cost)
Median Rent (1BR)	$1,135	$899	West Des Moines
Utilities (Avg. Monthly)	$160 (AC-heavy)	$175 (Heating-heavy)	Houston (Slight)
Groceries	106.5 (6.5% above avg)	86.1 (13.9% below avg)	West Des Moines
Median Home Price	$335,000	$316,000	West Des Moines

Salary Wars & The Tax Twist:
Here’s the kicker. The median income in West Des Moines is $83,637, which is 33% higher than Houston’s $62,637. When you combine a higher income with a lower cost of living, West Des Moines offers staggering financial advantage.

Let's run the numbers on that $100,000 salary:

In Houston: After Texas's 0% state income tax, your take-home is roughly $76,000 (accounting for federal taxes). Your rent is $1,135, leaving you with about $62,000 for everything else. You're doing okay, but not great.
In West Des Moines: Iowa has a progressive state income tax, with a top marginal rate of 6.5%. Your take-home on $100k is closer to $71,000. But your rent is only $899, leaving you with about $60,000 for other expenses. Wait, that's less? The magic happens with groceries and other goods being ~14% cheaper. Your overall purchasing power in West Des Moines is significantly higher. You can buy a home sooner, save more, and feel less financial pinch.

Insight: While Texas's lack of income tax is a headline grabber, West Des Moines' lower overall cost of living and higher median income create a more favorable financial environment for the average earner. You get more bang for your buck in Iowa.

The Housing Market: To Buy or to Rent?

Houston is a seller's market. With a population over 2.3 million, demand is fierce. The median home price of $335,000 is just an average; desirable neighborhoods can soar much higher. Rent is competitive, but you're competing with a lot of people. The sprawl means you can find something in your budget, but it might be a 45-minute commute from your job.

West Des Moines is also a seller's market, but it's a different beast. With a population of just 72,161, the inventory is tighter. The median home price of $316,000 is slightly lower than Houston's, but you're buying into a highly desirable school district and community. The market is competitive, but with less frenzy than a major metro. Renting is a viable, cheaper option ($899 for a 1BR), giving you time to save for a down payment without the pressure of Houston's rental market.

Verdict: If you're a buyer, West Des Moines offers a slightly better entry point with lower prices. If you're a renter, Houston gives you more variety, but at a higher cost. For long-term investment, West Des Moines' community-focused growth might offer more stable appreciation.

The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life

Traffic & Commute

Houston: Brutal. The city is built for cars, and the roads are packed. The average commute is 29.5 minutes, but in peak traffic, it can be over an hour. You will spend significant time in your car.
West Des Moines: Manageable. The commute is a breeze. You can get anywhere in the metro in under 30 minutes. Traffic is a minor annoyance, not a daily soul-crusher.

Weather

Houston: Hot and Humid. The average temperature is 59.0°F, but that's misleading. Summers are long, oppressive, and often top 90°F with suffocating humidity. Winters are mild but can be wet. Hurricane season is a real threat.
West Des Moines: Four True Seasons. Average temp is 25.0°F, but that's the winter average. You get glorious springs, warm summers, and stunning autumns. Yes, you'll shovel snow and deal with cold (often below 0°F), but it's a dry cold. For many, trading brutal humidity for a defined winter is a fair trade.

Crime & Safety

Houston: A Significant Concern. The violent crime rate is 912.4 per 100,000. This is more than 3x higher than the national average. While some neighborhoods are very safe, crime is a city-wide challenge you must research diligently.
West Des Moines: Exceptionally Safe. The violent crime rate is 301.8 per 100,000, which is below the national average. This is a huge differentiator. For families, especially, this is a massive win for the "Iowa" column.

The Final Verdict: Which City Wins Your Heart (and Wallet)?

This isn't a one-size-fits-all decision. The data speaks, but your life goals have the final say.

Winner for Families: West Des Moines

By a landslide. The combination of top-tier public schools, exceptional safety (301.8 vs 912.4 crime rate), lower cost of living, and a family-centric community is unbeatable. You can buy a great home for $316,000 or rent for $899, and your kids can play outside without you worrying. The slower pace and manageable commute mean more time together.

Winner for Singles / Young Pros: Houston

If you're career-driven and crave a dynamic social scene, Houston is the place. The 0% state income tax is a boon for high earners, and the city's cultural, culinary, and professional opportunities are unmatched. The higher rent ($1,135) and crime rate are the trade-offs for access to a world-class city. It’s a place to build a résumé and an exciting life.

Winner for Retirees: West Des Moines

For retirees, safety, affordability, and peace of mind are paramount. West Des Moines offers a lower cost of living, a slower pace, and a safe environment. The harsh winters are a consideration, but many retirees prefer the distinct seasons to Houston's relentless heat and humidity. The excellent healthcare system in the Des Moines metro is a major plus.

At a Glance: Pros & Cons

Houston, Texas

PROS:

Zero state income tax—a major financial advantage.
Unmatched diversity and culture—food, arts, and international flair.
Major job market in energy, healthcare, and tech.
World-class amenities (NASA, museums, professional sports).
Mild winters—no snow shoveling.

CONS:

High violent crime rate (912.4/100k)—requires careful neighborhood selection.
Brutal traffic and long commutes.
Oppressive summer humidity and hurricane risk.
Higher cost of living for services and groceries.
Sprawling, car-dependent layout.

West Des Moines, Iowa