FIRE in Des Moines, IA
Local insight: What makes this city unique for FIRE isn't obvious from census data alone. After running detailed cost analysis and factoring in local tax quirks, healthcare variability, and housing market dynamics, I've found the standard FIRE formulas need significant adjustment for local conditions.
Des Moines is a FIRE sleeper: major insurance/finance employers (Nationwide, Principal), 2.5% unemployment, and homes ~$250K. The math is extraordinary.
| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Housing (1BR) | $1,050 |
| Food | $390 |
| Transportation | $270 |
| Healthcare | $410 |
| Utilities | $190 |
| Entertainment | $270 |
| Total | $2,580 |
Median home: $250,000. FIRE Number: $774,000 (Lean), $1,085,000 (Traditional). IA tax up to 6%.
Local Considerations
Insurance capital (Principal, Nationwide). Very low cost of living. State Fair is world-famous. Winters cold but manageable.
Neighborhood Breakdown
| Neighborhood | 1BR Rent | Median Home | Walk Score | Transit Score | Vibe |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| East Village / Downtown | $1,100-1,500 | $300-420K | 70 | 20 | Walkable dining farmers market |
| Beaverdale | $1,000-1,400 | $280-380K | 35 | 10 | Family-friendly quiet |
| Ankeny / WDSM | $1,200-1,600 | $320-420K | 20 | 5 | Top schools new commute |
| Sherman Hill | $1,100-1,400 | $280-380K | 55 | 15 | Historic walkable up-and-coming |
Tax Reality
IA income tax 4.4% top (2026, dropping to 3.9%). No local income tax. Property tax ~1.5% effective. Sales tax 7%.
Cost data from Zillow Rental Market Report (Q1 2026) and Redfin Data Center. Tax rates from official state Department of Revenue publications for 2026.