In Des Moines (western 'burbs actually) $1700 will get you a new 2000 square foot house on less than a quarter acre. The housing market here is ridiculous compared to the average household income ($45,000 +/-). According to some of internet search engines, it is more expensive to live in Des Moines than any of the surrounding cities, except Chicago. Oh well, it's better than living in "dueling banjo" country. (odd coming from an Iowan, eh?)
