Minnesota vs Iowa: Which Is Better to Live In?
Minnesota ranks #12 of 50 overall and Iowa #14 as of the latest release. Iowa is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 87.8 vs 98.6), collects a similar share of income in taxes. Overall they are 1.2 points apart, too close to call: Minnesota leads 7 of 11 categories, Iowa leads 3.
- Center-based infant care, per year is 36% lower in Iowa ($13,253 vs. $20,592 in Minnesota).
- Typical home value is 32% lower in Iowa ($239,547 vs. $350,752 in Minnesota).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 25% lower in Iowa ($1,297 vs. $1,719 in Minnesota).
| Measure | MinnesotaMN | IowaIA | GapMN−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +1.2 pts | 70.4#12 of 50 · B+ | 69.2#14 of 50 · B+ | +1.2 pts | — | Even |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +10.8 pts (+12%) · US 100 | 98.6#30 of 50 | 87.8#3 of 50 | +10.8 pts+12% | 100 | IA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$22,219 · US -$11,758 | -$24,536#37 of 50 | -$2,317#13 of 50 | -$22,219 | -$11,758 | IA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$111,205 (+46%) · US $368,697 | $350,752#26 of 50 | $239,547#7 of 50 | +$111,205+46% | $368,697 | IA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.49 pts · US 8.74% | 9.72%#40 of 50 | 9.23%#34 of 50 | +0.49 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -10 (-4%) · US 328 | 224#13 of 50 | 234#16 of 50 | -10-4% | 328 | Even |
| Median household incomeGap +$11,616 (+15%) · US $80,903 | $87,117#14 of 50 | $75,501#34 of 50 | +$11,616+15% | $80,903 | MN |
| High school graduation rateGap -6.3 pts · US 85.62% | 83.6%#35 of 50 | 89.9%#6 of 50 | -6.3 pts | 85.62% | IA |
| Life expectancyGap +1.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#6 of 50 | 77.9#18 of 50 | +1.4 yrs | 76.9 | MN |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -2,692 · US -33 | -5,106#39 of 50 | -2,414#35 of 50 | -2,692 | -33 | IA |
Cost of living index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (US = 100). Left after costs from the America's Dashboard affordability engine for a family of four earning $75,000. Typical home value from Zillow Research. Tax burden from WalletHub. Violent crime from the FBI, per 100,000 residents. Income and graduation from the Census Bureau and NCES. Life expectancy from the CDC. Net households from IRS Statistics of Income. US column is the 50-state average or median.
Is Minnesota or Iowa better to live in?
Minnesota scores 70.4 and Iowa scores 69.2 out of 100, a 1.2-point gap this site treats as even. Minnesota leads 7 of 11 categories, Iowa leads 3, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | MinnesotaMN | IowaIA | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +4.3 | 15% | 53.1#15 · B+ | 48.8#24 · B | +4.3 pts | MN |
| Safety12% of scoregap -2.7 | 12% | 77.1#18 · B+ | 79.8#12 · B+ | -2.7 pts | Even |
| Health12% of scoregap +14.2 | 12% | 74.5#9 · A | 60.3#20 · B | +14.2 pts | MN |
| Education12% of scoregap -4.3 | 12% | 64.7#19 · B | 69.0#9 · A | -4.3 pts | IA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -23.2 | 10% | 63.1#29 · C+ | 86.3#5 · A+ | -23.2 pts | IA |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -6.8 | 8% | 59.2#26 · B | 66.0#14 · B+ | -6.8 pts | IA |
| Growth7% of scoregap +5.7 | 7% | 40.7#25 · B | 35.0#29 · C+ | +5.7 pts | MN |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +4 | 7% | 59.6#5 · A+ | 55.6#13 · B+ | +4 pts | MN |
| Livability7% of scoregap +8.9 | 7% | 36.5#17 · B+ | 27.6#34 · C+ | +8.9 pts | MN |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +8.3 | 6% | 30.7#21 · B | 22.4#28 · C+ | +8.3 pts | MN |
| Environment4% of scoregap +4.3 | 4% | 51.0#12 · B+ | 46.7#17 · B+ | +4.3 pts | MN |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is Minnesota cheaper than Iowa?
Iowa is cheaper: cost of living index 87.8 vs 98.6 in Minnesota (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $22,219 more a year in Iowa after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | MinnesotaMN | IowaIA | GapMN−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +10.8 pts (+12%) · US 100 | 98.6#30 of 50 | 87.8#3 of 50 | +10.8 pts+12% | 100 | IA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +6.8 pts (+7%) · US 100 | 100.5#41 of 50 | 93.7#2 of 50 | +6.8 pts+7% | 100 | IA |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.10¢ (+15%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.82¢/kWh#29 of 50 | 13.72¢/kWh#16 of 50 | +2.10¢+15% | 17.84¢/kWh | IA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.37 (+3%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $10.98/Mcf#10 of 50 | $10.61/Mcf#7 of 50 | +$0.37+3% | $15.83/Mcf | IA |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.03 (+1%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.15/gal#20 of 50 | $3.12/gal#18 of 50 | +$0.03+1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$7,339 (+55%) · US $15,633 | $20,592#41 of 50 | $13,253#17 of 50 | +$7,339+55% | $15,633 | IA |
Cost of living index and the price level for goods from the Bureau of Economic Analysis regional price parities (US = 100). Electricity, natural gas and gasoline prices from the EIA; center-based infant care from Child Care Aware of America. Lower is ahead.
| Measure | MinnesotaMN | IowaIA | GapMN−IA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$5,644 | +$30,192costs $44,807 | +$35,836costs $39,165 | -$5,644 | IA |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$6,231 | +$22,087costs $52,914 | +$28,318costs $46,683 | -$6,231 | IA |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$22,219 | -$24,536costs $99,536 | -$2,317costs $77,317 | -$22,219 | IA |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$5,468 | +$34,998costs $40,002 | +$40,466costs $34,534 | -$5,468 | IA |
Income left after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and state and local taxes for four household types earning $75,000, from the affordability engine. Negative means typical costs exceed take-home pay.
| Measure | MinnesotaMN | IowaIA | GapMN−IA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$6,861 | $24,966 | $18,105 | +$6,861 | IA |
| ChildcareGap +$14,678 | $41,184 | $26,506 | +$14,678 | IA |
| UtilitiesGap +$519 | $4,733 | $4,214 | +$519 | IA |
| GroceriesGap +$766 | $11,319 | $10,553 | +$766 | IA |
| TransportationGap +$94 | $9,900 | $9,806 | +$94 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$699 | $7,434 | $8,133 | -$699 | MN |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Minnesota or Iowa?
Minnesota and Iowa collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 9.72% vs 9.23%. Minnesota has high income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Iowa has low income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | MinnesotaMN | IowaIA | GapMN−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.49 pts · US 8.74% | 9.72%#40 of 50 | 9.23%#34 of 50 | +0.49 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +6.05 pts · US 5.46% | 9.85%#45 of 50 | 3.8%#13 of 50 | +6.05 pts | 5.46% | IA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.44 pts · US 1.02% | 1.05%#31 of 50 | 1.49%#41 of 50 | -0.44 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.2 pts · US 6.66% | 8.14%#36 of 50 | 6.94%#22 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 6.66% | IA |
Total tax burden (state and local taxes as a share of personal income) from WalletHub; top marginal income tax rate, effective property tax rate and combined state and local sales tax from the Tax Foundation. Lower is ahead.
Are homes more expensive in Minnesota or Iowa?
Homes cost 46% more in Minnesota: a typical home value of $350,752 in Minnesota vs $239,547 in Iowa. Buying the typical home takes about $98,911 of income in Minnesota and $70,437 in Iowa; the median household earns $87,117 and $75,501.
| Measure | MinnesotaMN | IowaIA | GapMN−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$111,205 (+46%) · US $368,697 | $350,752#26 of 50 | $239,547#7 of 50 | +$111,205+46% | $368,697 | IA |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1 pts · US +1.2% | +2.5%#21 of 50 | +3.5%#11 of 50 | -1 pts | +1.2% | IA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$422 (+33%) · US $1,948 | $1,719#24 of 50 | $1,297#6 of 50 | +$422+33% | $1,948 | IA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$28,474 (+40%) · US $100,006 | $98,911#29 of 50 | $70,437#8 of 50 | +$28,474+40% | $100,006 | IA |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.8x (+25%) · US 4.6x | 4x#19 of 50 | 3.2x#2 of 50 | +0.8x+25% | 4.6x | IA |
Typical home value, one-year change, largest-metro rent and income needed to buy from Zillow Research (a modeled estimate, not a median). Price-to-income ratio divides that typical home value by ACS median household income. Lower is ahead.
| MN | IA | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,805 | $1,232 |
| Income needed vs. median | +14% | -7% |
| Five-year change | +14.1% | +26.1% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Warm |
| Largest metro | Minneapolis | Des Moines |
Income needed vs. median: how far the income required to buy the typical home sits above (+) or below (−) the state's median household income. Temperature blends price cuts, days to pending and inventory against the national market (Zillow).
Do people earn more in Minnesota or Iowa?
Minnesota pays more: median household income $87,117 vs $75,501, with unemployment at 3.9% in Minnesota and 3.5% in Iowa. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Minnesota's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 18 after adjusting for local costs and Iowa's in 0.
| Measure | MinnesotaMN | IowaIA | GapMN−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$11,616 (+15%) · US $80,903 | $87,117#14 of 50 | $75,501#34 of 50 | +$11,616+15% | $80,903 | MN |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.4 pts · US 3.95% | 3.9%#23 of 50 | 3.5%#15 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$6,515 (+10%) · US $64,333 | $71,279#13 of 50 | $64,764#21 of 50 | +$6,515+10% | $64,333 | MN |
| Real GDP growthGap +1 pts · US +1.91% | +2.2%#19 of 50 | +1.2%#43 of 50 | +1 pts | +1.91% | MN |
| Population growthGap +0.32 pts · US +0.51% | +0.57%#21 of 50 | +0.25%#37 of 50 | +0.32 pts | +0.51% | Even |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | MN | IA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $85,017$83,317 in Minneapolis | $73,833$65,711 in Des Moines | MN |
| Lawyers | $153,543$150,472 in Minneapolis | $143,340$127,573 in Des Moines | MN |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $117,497$115,147 in Minneapolis | $107,679$95,834 in Des Moines | MN |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $74,902$73,404 in Minneapolis | $67,263$59,864 in Des Moines | MN |
| Civil Engineers | $107,509$105,359 in Minneapolis | $100,113$89,101 in Des Moines | MN |
| General & Operations Managers | $112,218$109,974 in Minneapolis | $105,399$93,805 in Des Moines | MN |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $247,865$242,908 in Minneapolis | $241,727$215,137 in Des Moines | Even |
| Registered Nurses | $96,329$94,402 in Minneapolis | $90,444$80,495 in Des Moines | MN |
| Accountants & Auditors | $85,719$84,005 in Minneapolis | $80,166$71,348 in Des Moines | MN |
| Software Developers | $147,131$144,188 in Minneapolis | $141,671$126,087 in Des Moines | MN |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $80,332$78,725 in Minneapolis | $75,354$67,065 in Des Moines | MN |
| Electricians | $69,341$67,954 in Minneapolis | $65,071$57,913 in Des Moines | MN |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $60,598$59,386 in Minneapolis | $56,506$50,290 in Des Moines | MN |
| Secondary School Teachers | $73,829$72,352 in Minneapolis | $70,096$62,385 in Des Moines | MN |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $59,753$58,558 in Minneapolis | $56,109$49,937 in Des Moines | MN |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $38,897$38,119 in Minneapolis | $35,545$31,635 in Des Moines | MN |
| Construction Laborers | $45,964$45,045 in Minneapolis | $43,482$38,699 in Des Moines | MN |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $60,722$59,508 in Minneapolis | $58,447$52,018 in Des Moines | MN |
| Mental Health Counselors | $58,550$57,379 in Minneapolis | $56,442$50,233 in Des Moines | MN |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $52,704$51,650 in Minneapolis | $51,294$45,652 in Des Moines | Even |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is Minnesota safer than Iowa?
Violent crime is about the same: 224 per 100,000 residents in Minnesota and 234 in Iowa (FBI). Property crime runs 1,412 and 1,172 per 100,000.
| Measure | MinnesotaMN | IowaIA | GapMN−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -10 (-4%) · US 328 | 224#13 of 50 | 234#16 of 50 | -10-4% | 328 | Even |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +240 (+20%) · US 1,535 | 1,412#22 of 50 | 1,172#11 of 50 | +240+20% | 1,535 | IA |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida and North Dakota use the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Edina, MN52 violent per 100K
- Bettendorf, IA94 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Minnesota or Iowa?
Iowa scores higher for education (#9 of 50 vs #19), with high school graduation rates of 83.6% and 89.9%. Minnesota scores higher for health (#9 vs #20); life expectancy is 79.3 years in Minnesota and 77.9 in Iowa.
| Measure | MinnesotaMN | IowaIA | GapMN−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +7 · US 273 | 282#3 of 50 | 275#23 of 50 | +7 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 257 | 260#14 of 50 | 261#10 of 50 | -1 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -6.3 pts · US 85.62% | 83.6%#35 of 50 | 89.9%#6 of 50 | -6.3 pts | 85.62% | IA |
| Life expectancyGap +1.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#6 of 50 | 77.9#18 of 50 | +1.4 yrs | 76.9 | MN |
| Adults with obesityGap -4.3 pts · US 34.03% | 32.3%#15 of 50 | 36.6%#34 of 50 | -4.3 pts | 34.03% | MN |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -0.3 pts · US 7.6% | 5.1%#7 of 50 | 5.4%#11 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -7 pts (-16%) · US 38.8 | 36#13 of 50 | 43#39 of 50 | -7 pts-16% | 38.8 | MN |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- Eden Prairie, MNeducation score 94.3
- Urbandale, IAeducation score 98.3
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: Minnesota #19, Iowa #9. Health: Minnesota #9, Iowa #20.
Are more people moving from Minnesota to Iowa, or from Iowa to Minnesota?
2,324 households moved from Minnesota to Iowa and 2,819 moved from Iowa to Minnesota in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 495 households for Minnesota. Movers to Iowa reported an average income of $66,038; movers to Minnesota reported $63,732. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 5,086 people (±1,099) moving from Minnesota to Iowa and 5,965 (±1,581) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Bars show people (Census ACS, latest release, with 90% margins of error). IRS counts tax-filing households and reports the movers' average income; pairs outside a state's top ten origins and destinations are not published.
| Measure | MinnesotaMN | IowaIA | GapMN−IA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +19,787 (+59%) | 53,331#26 of 50 | 33,544#35 of 50 | +19,787+59% | MN |
| Households moving outIRSGap +22,479 (+63%) | 58,437#28 of 50 | 35,958#18 of 50 | +22,479+63% | IA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -2,692 | -5,106#39 of 50 | -2,414#35 of 50 | -2,692 | IA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.2 | -0.9#36 of 50 | -0.7#34 of 50 | -0.2 | Even |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$8,868 (+14%) | $70,476#33 of 50 | $61,608#43 of 50 | +$8,868+14% | MN |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$24,542 (+38%) | $89,425#8 of 50 | $64,883#41 of 50 | +$24,542+38% | MN |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.7 | +1.4#22 of 50 | -0.3#35 of 50 | +1.7 | MN |
Each state's total inbound and outbound households and the movers' average income from IRS Statistics of Income; net domestic migration per 1,000 residents from Census Bureau population estimates. Latest releases.
Which is better for retirees, families or remote workers, Minnesota or Iowa?
Minnesota is the better fit for young professionals and outdoor enthusiasts; Iowa is the better fit for families; 3 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | MinnesotaMN | IowaIA | GapMN−IA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +12 places | #15score 77.9 | #3score 81.7 | +12 places | IA |
| RetireesGap +3 places | #11score 75.6 | #8score 77.8 | +3 places | Even |
| Remote WorkersGap +3 places | #13score 59.7 | #10score 63.9 | +3 places | Even |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -4 places | #11score 63.9 | #15score 62.7 | -4 places | MN |
| Small BusinessGap +3 places | #17score 63.2 | #14score 65.8 | +3 places | Even |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -6 places | #12score 58.6 | #18score 52.5 | -6 places | MN |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesIowa (#3 vs #15)
- RetireesEven (#11 vs #8)
- Remote WorkersEven (#13 vs #10)
- Young ProfessionalsMinnesota (#11 vs #15)
- Small BusinessEven (#17 vs #14)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsMinnesota (#12 vs #18)
Which cities stand out in Minnesota and Iowa?
Minnesota has 20 tracked cities and Iowa has 20; the largest are Minneapolis and Des Moines. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | MinnesotaMN | IowaIA |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Minneapolis427,246 people | Des Moines212,421 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Edinascore 72.2 | Waukeescore 70.9 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Edina52 violent per 100K | Bettendorf94 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | St. Cloudcost index 87.6 | Marshalltowncost index 84.1 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Minneapoliswalkability 14.9 of 20 | Fort Dodgewalkability 14.9 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | St. Paulcounty median AQI 34 | Iowa Citycounty median AQI 37 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Eden Prairie94.3% graduation rate | Urbandale98.3% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Lakevillemedian income $139,041 | Urbandalemedian income $112,795 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Minnetonka+2.2% growth | Waukee+9.3% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Minnesota and Iowa compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Minnesota carries AAA credit rating and Iowa AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | MinnesotaMN | IowaIA | GapMN−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -31 pts · US 29.34% | 36%#16 of 50 | 67%#6 of 50 | -31 pts | 29.34% | IA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -11.6 (-30%) · US 29.6 | 26.7#25 of 50 | 38.3#36 of 50 | -11.6-30% | 29.6 | MN |
| Public land shareGap +9.8 pts · US 17.16% | 10.9%#20 of 50 | 1.1%#48 of 50 | +9.8 pts | 17.16% | MN |
| Mean travel time to workGap +2.3 min · US 25.2 min | 22.7 min#11 of 50 | 20.4 min#8 of 50 | +2.3 min | 25.2 min | IA |
| Commuters using public transitGap +1 pts · US 2.29% | 1.8%#17 of 50 | 0.8%#31 of 50 | +1 pts | 2.29% | MN |
| Workers working from homeGap +4.8 pts · US 12.28% | 14.7%#15 of 50 | 9.9%#36 of 50 | +4.8 pts | 12.28% | MN |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.2 pts · US 92.67% | 92.9%#22 of 50 | 90.7%#45 of 50 | +2.2 pts | 92.67% | MN |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | MinnesotaMN | IowaIA | GapMN−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#5 of 50 | 100#6 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -2.5 pts · US 12.39% | 8.1%#37 of 50 | 10.6%#23 of 50 | -2.5 pts | 12.39% | IA |
| Pension funded ratioGap -8 pts · US 74.3% | 79%#18 of 50 | 87%#9 of 50 | -8 pts | 74.3% | IA |
| State debt per capitaGap +$810 (+31%) · US $3,506 | $3,460#34 of 50 | $2,650#22 of 50 | +$810+31% | $3,506 | IA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -4.6 pts · US +4.66% | +2.5%#41 of 50 | +7.1%#10 of 50 | -4.6 pts | +4.66% | IA |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Minnesota AAA, Iowa AAA), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Minnesota vs Iowa: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Minnesota is ahead on 14 of 51, Iowa on 24, and 13 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | MinnesotaMN | IowaIA | GapMN−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +2,592,018 (+80%) · US 6.8 million | 5.8 million#22 of 50 | 3.2 million#32 of 50 | +2,592,018+80% | 6.8 million | MN |
| Median household incomeGap +$11,616 (+15%) · US $80,903 | $87,117#14 of 50 | $75,501#34 of 50 | +$11,616+15% | $80,903 | MN |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.4 pts · US 3.95% | 3.9%#23 of 50 | 3.5%#15 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.32 pts · US +0.51% | +0.57%#21 of 50 | +0.25%#37 of 50 | +0.32 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$6,515 (+10%) · US $64,333 | $71,279#13 of 50 | $64,764#21 of 50 | +$6,515+10% | $64,333 | MN |
| Real GDP growthGap +1 pts · US +1.91% | +2.2%#19 of 50 | +1.2%#43 of 50 | +1 pts | +1.91% | MN |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -10 (-4%) · US 328 | 224#13 of 50 | 234#16 of 50 | -10-4% | 328 | Even |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +240 (+20%) · US 1,535 | 1,412#22 of 50 | 1,172#11 of 50 | +240+20% | 1,535 | IA |
| High school graduation rateGap -6.3 pts · US 85.62% | 83.6%#35 of 50 | 89.9%#6 of 50 | -6.3 pts | 85.62% | IA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +4 · US 237 | 241#7 of 50 | 237#30 of 50 | +4 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +7 · US 273 | 282#3 of 50 | 275#23 of 50 | +7 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -0 · US 214 | 214#27 of 50 | 215#25 of 50 | -0 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 257 | 260#14 of 50 | 261#10 of 50 | -1 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#6 of 50 | 77.9#18 of 50 | +1.4 yrs | 76.9 | MN |
| Adults with obesityGap -4.3 pts · US 34.03% | 32.3%#15 of 50 | 36.6%#34 of 50 | -4.3 pts | 34.03% | MN |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -0.3 pts · US 7.6% | 5.1%#7 of 50 | 5.4%#11 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$111,205 (+46%) · US $368,697 | $350,752#26 of 50 | $239,547#7 of 50 | +$111,205+46% | $368,697 | IA |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1 pts · US +1.2% | +2.5%#21 of 50 | +3.5%#11 of 50 | -1 pts | +1.2% | IA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$422 (+33%) · US $1,948 | $1,719#24 of 50 | $1,297#6 of 50 | +$422+33% | $1,948 | IA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$28,474 (+40%) · US $100,006 | $98,911#29 of 50 | $70,437#8 of 50 | +$28,474+40% | $100,006 | IA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +10.8 pts (+12%) · US 100 | 98.6#30 of 50 | 87.8#3 of 50 | +10.8 pts+12% | 100 | IA |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.8x (+25%) · US 4.6x | 4x#19 of 50 | 3.2x#2 of 50 | +0.8x+25% | 4.6x | IA |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.10¢ (+15%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.82¢/kWh#29 of 50 | 13.72¢/kWh#16 of 50 | +2.10¢+15% | 17.84¢/kWh | IA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.37 (+3%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $10.98/Mcf#10 of 50 | $10.61/Mcf#7 of 50 | +$0.37+3% | $15.83/Mcf | IA |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.03 (+1%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.15/gal#20 of 50 | $3.12/gal#18 of 50 | +$0.03+1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +6.8 pts (+7%) · US 100 | 100.5#41 of 50 | 93.7#2 of 50 | +6.8 pts+7% | 100 | IA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$7,339 (+55%) · US $15,633 | $20,592#41 of 50 | $13,253#17 of 50 | +$7,339+55% | $15,633 | IA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.49 pts · US 8.74% | 9.72%#40 of 50 | 9.23%#34 of 50 | +0.49 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +6.05 pts · US 5.46% | 9.85%#45 of 50 | 3.8%#13 of 50 | +6.05 pts | 5.46% | IA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.44 pts · US 1.02% | 1.05%#31 of 50 | 1.49%#41 of 50 | -0.44 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.2 pts · US 6.66% | 8.14%#36 of 50 | 6.94%#22 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 6.66% | IA |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#5 of 50 | 100#6 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -2.5 pts · US 12.39% | 8.1%#37 of 50 | 10.6%#23 of 50 | -2.5 pts | 12.39% | IA |
| Pension funded ratioGap -8 pts · US 74.3% | 79%#18 of 50 | 87%#9 of 50 | -8 pts | 74.3% | IA |
| State debt per capitaGap +$810 (+31%) · US $3,506 | $3,460#34 of 50 | $2,650#22 of 50 | +$810+31% | $3,506 | IA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -4.6 pts · US +4.66% | +2.5%#41 of 50 | +7.1%#10 of 50 | -4.6 pts | +4.66% | IA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -7 pts (-16%) · US 38.8 | 36#13 of 50 | 43#39 of 50 | -7 pts-16% | 38.8 | MN |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -31 pts · US 29.34% | 36%#16 of 50 | 67%#6 of 50 | -31 pts | 29.34% | IA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -11.6 (-30%) · US 29.6 | 26.7#25 of 50 | 38.3#36 of 50 | -11.6-30% | 29.6 | MN |
| Public land shareGap +9.8 pts · US 17.16% | 10.9%#20 of 50 | 1.1%#48 of 50 | +9.8 pts | 17.16% | MN |
| Mean travel time to workGap +2.3 min · US 25.2 min | 22.7 min#11 of 50 | 20.4 min#8 of 50 | +2.3 min | 25.2 min | IA |
| Commuters using public transitGap +1 pts · US 2.29% | 1.8%#17 of 50 | 0.8%#31 of 50 | +1 pts | 2.29% | MN |
| Workers working from homeGap +4.8 pts · US 12.28% | 14.7%#15 of 50 | 9.9%#36 of 50 | +4.8 pts | 12.28% | MN |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.2 pts · US 92.67% | 92.9%#22 of 50 | 90.7%#45 of 50 | +2.2 pts | 92.67% | MN |
| Households moving inIRSGap +19,787 (+59%) · US 78,682 | 53,331#26 of 50 | 33,544#35 of 50 | +19,787+59% | 78,682 | MN |
| Households moving outIRSGap +22,479 (+63%) · US 78,715 | 58,437#28 of 50 | 35,958#18 of 50 | +22,479+63% | 78,715 | IA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -2,692 · US -33 | -5,106#39 of 50 | -2,414#35 of 50 | -2,692 | -33 | IA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.2 · US +0.4 | -0.9#36 of 50 | -0.7#34 of 50 | -0.2 | +0.4 | Even |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$8,868 (+14%) · US $77,690 | $70,476#33 of 50 | $61,608#43 of 50 | +$8,868+14% | $77,690 | MN |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$24,542 (+38%) · US $77,024 | $89,425#8 of 50 | $64,883#41 of 50 | +$24,542+38% | $77,024 | MN |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.7 · US +1.1 | +1.4#22 of 50 | -0.3#35 of 50 | +1.7 | +1.1 | MN |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$22,219 · US -$11,758 | -$24,536#37 of 50 | -$2,317#13 of 50 | -$22,219 | -$11,758 | IA |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$5,644 · US +$31,418 | +$30,192#29 of 50 | +$35,836#12 of 50 | -$5,644 | +$31,418 | IA |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$5,468 · US +$35,970 | +$34,998#27 of 50 | +$40,466#12 of 50 | -$5,468 | +$35,970 | IA |
Every metric in the registry, direction-aware: ahead means better for a resident. Ranks are among the states with data. Sources are listed at the foot of the page.
Key takeaways
What the Minnesota and Iowa numbers say when read together.
Neither state is better overall
Minnesota (70.4, #12) and Iowa (69.2, #14) are within 2 composite points. Minnesota leads 7 categories, Iowa leads 3, and 1 are even. The answer depends on which categories matter to you.
Iowa is cheaper day to day
Iowa's cost of living index is 87.8 against 98.6 in Minnesota (US = 100). The typical home costs $350,752 in Minnesota and $239,547 in Iowa. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$24,536 a year after typical costs in Minnesota and -$2,317 in Iowa.
Tax burdens are close
Minnesota collects 9.72% of income in state and local taxes (high income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack); Iowa collects 9.23% (low income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack).
Minnesota pays more
Median household income is $87,117 in Minnesota and $75,501 in Iowa, with unemployment at 3.9% and 3.5%. Violent crime runs 224 per 100,000 residents in Minnesota and 234 in Iowa.
Moves between the two run about even
5,086 people moved from Minnesota to Iowa and 5,965 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Iowa is the better fit for families
For families, Minnesota ranks #15 of 50 and Iowa #3; for retirees, Minnesota ranks #11 and Iowa #8.
Minnesota vs Iowa: frequently asked questions
Is Minnesota or Iowa better to live in?
Minnesota ranks #12 of 50 overall and Iowa #14 as of the latest release. Iowa is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 87.8 vs 98.6), collects a similar share of income in taxes. Overall they are 1.2 points apart, too close to call: Minnesota leads 7 of 11 categories, Iowa leads 3.
Is Minnesota cheaper than Iowa?
Iowa is cheaper than Minnesota: cost of living index 87.8 vs 98.6 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$24,536 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Minnesota, and -$2,317 in Iowa. The typical home value is $350,752 in Minnesota and $239,547 in Iowa.
Which has lower taxes, Minnesota or Iowa?
Minnesota and Iowa have similar tax burdens: 9.72% vs 9.23% of income in state and local taxes. Minnesota's top income tax rate is 9.85%, its effective property tax rate 1.05% and its combined sales tax 8.14%; Iowa's are 3.8%, 1.49% and 6.94%.
Is Minnesota safer than Iowa?
Minnesota and Iowa have similar violent crime rates: 224 vs 234 per 100,000 residents, per the FBI. Minnesota ranks #13 of 50 for violent crime and Iowa #16. Property crime is 1,412 per 100,000 in Minnesota and 1,172 in Iowa. The safest tracked cities are Edina, MN, and Bettendorf, IA.
Are homes more expensive in Minnesota or Iowa?
Homes are 46% more expensive in Minnesota: the typical home value is $350,752 in Minnesota and $239,547 in Iowa. Buying the typical home takes about $98,911 of household income in Minnesota and $70,437 in Iowa, against median incomes of $87,117 and $75,501.
Do people earn more in Minnesota or Iowa?
Minnesota pays more: median household income is $87,117 vs $75,501 in Iowa, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.9% in Minnesota and 3.5% in Iowa. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Minnesota's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 18 after adjusting for local costs and Iowa's in 0, with 2 even.
Are more people moving from Minnesota to Iowa or from Iowa to Minnesota?
2,324 households moved from Minnesota to Iowa and 2,819 moved from Iowa to Minnesota in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 495 households for Minnesota. Movers to Iowa reported an average income of $66,038; movers to Minnesota reported $63,732. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 5,086 people (±1,099) moving from Minnesota to Iowa and 5,965 (±1,581) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Minnesota or Iowa?
Minnesota and Iowa are close for retirees: #11 and #8 of 50 on the retiree index. Minnesota has high income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Iowa has low income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$34,998 left after typical costs in Minnesota and +$40,466 in Iowa.
Which is better for families, Minnesota or Iowa?
Iowa is the better fit for families: #3 of 50 on the families index vs #15 for Minnesota. Center-based infant care costs $20,592 a year in Minnesota and $13,253 in Iowa. High school graduation rates are 83.6% and 89.9%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$24,536 after typical costs in Minnesota and -$2,317 in Iowa.
Which has better schools, Minnesota or Iowa?
Iowa scores higher for education: #9 of 50 vs #19 for Minnesota. Eighth graders average 282 in NAEP math in Minnesota and 275 in Iowa. High school graduation rates are 83.6% in Minnesota and 89.9% in Iowa, and the education category scores are 64.7 and 69 out of 100. Among tracked cities, Eden Prairie and Urbandale have the strongest school metrics.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Minnesota vs Iowa.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor (2,819 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).