Cost of Living Comparison · 2026

Des Moines vs Indianapolis

$75,000 salary · single filer · 2-bedroom apartment

Monthly take-home pay

Des Moines$4,809

Indianapolis$4,905

2-bedroom rent (HUD FMR)

Des Moines$1,318

Indianapolis$1,473

Left after rent

Des Moines$3,491

Indianapolis$3,432

Thinking about moving from Des Moines to Indianapolis on a $75k salary? On $75,000 a year, you take home $4,809/mo in Des Moines and $4,905/mo in Indianapolis after taxes. Factor in a 2-bedroom apartment and you're left with $3,491/mo in Des Moines vs $3,432/mo in Indianapolis. Numbers use 2026 tax brackets and HUD fair market rents. Treat them as a starting point, not financial advice.

See the full picture: taxes, rent, weather, schools and more

Change your income, filing status, or bedroom count in the full tool.