Free comparison
Moving from Iowa to Oregon
A side-by-side comparison drawn from BLS, BEA, Census, FBI, and NOAA. Corn country, low unemployment, surprisingly arts-rich. vs. Portland weirdness, no sales tax, drizzly winters.
Iowa
Capital: Des Moines
Median household income $70,571 · winter low 13°F · 200 sunny days
Corn country, low unemployment, surprisingly arts-rich.
Oregon
Capital: Salem
Median household income $76,362 · winter low 36°F · 144 sunny days
Portland weirdness, no sales tax, drizzly winters.
Oregon has an overall price level 103.4 (US avg = 100). Housing dominates the difference.
Summer high 80°F · Winter low 36°F · 144 sunny days/yr.
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Schools, healthcare, taxes, transportation, lifestyle, crime, family fit, move logistics, and a 90-day move timeline.
See the full comparisonFrequently asked
Is it cheaper to live in Oregon than Iowa?
Oregon's overall price level is roughly 100.5 (US avg = 100), vs about 90 for Iowa, based on BEA Regional Price Parities. Housing is the dominant driver of the difference. Run a comparison for the full, current breakdown.
What's the income tax difference?
Iowa tops out at 3.8% income tax. Oregon tops out at 9.9%.
How long do I have to register my vehicle in Oregon?
Most Oregon residents must register a vehicle within 30-60 days of moving. Check the piomover report for state-specific deadlines.