Salary Needed to Live in Des Moines as a Family
A family of four (2 adults, 2 children) needs approximately $50,827/year to live comfortably in Des Moines, IA — including 15% savings.
Comfortable Salary
$50,827
with 15% savings
Bare Minimum
$40,524
no savings buffer
Monthly Expenses
$2,499
14% below national avg
Detailed Monthly Budget for a Family in Des Moines
| Expense | Des Moines | Nat'l Avg | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🏠 3BR Apartment/House Rent | $135 | $209 | -35% |
| 🛒 Groceries | $39 | $44 | -11% |
| ⚡ Utilities | $21 | $28 | -25% |
| 🚗 Transportation | $39 | $44 | -11% |
| 🛡️ Car Insurance | $138 | $211 | -35% |
| 🏥 Health Insurance | $52 | $53 | -2% |
| Childcare/After-school | $1,068 | $1,200 | -11% |
| Internet + Phones | $160 | $180 | -11% |
| Children Activities | $223 | $250 | -11% |
| Dining Out | $312 | $350 | -11% |
| School Supplies & Clothing | $178 | $200 | -11% |
| Healthcare Co-pays | $134 | $150 | -11% |
| Total Monthly | $2,499 | $2,919 | -14% |
How We Calculated the Salary
Monthly expenses:$2,499
Target savings (15%):$553/mo
Monthly after-tax needed:$3,052
Effective tax rate:26%
Gross annual salary needed:$50,827
Other Household Types in Des Moines
Related Pages
FAQ
What salary does a family with kids need in Des Moines?
A family with kids needs approximately $50,827/year ($4,236/month gross) to live comfortably in Des Moines with a 15% savings rate.
How much is rent for a family with kids in Des Moines?
A 3br apartment/house in Des Moines costs approximately $135/month, which is the largest single expense at 5% of the total budget.
Is Des Moines affordable for a family with kids?
Yes, Des Moines is 14% more affordable than the national average for a family with kids.