Ainsworth, IA vs Ely, IA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Ainsworth is 25.9% cheaper than Ely. With a cost index of 63 vs 85, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Ainsworth to Ely should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Ainsworth is $714/month compared to $1,014/month in Ely — a 30% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Ainsworth is more affordable at $110,300 median vs $275,800.

Median household income in Ainsworth is $67,115 compared to $102,262 in Ely (-34.4%). While Ely is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Ainsworth spend roughly 12.8% of their income on rent, more than the 11.9% in Ely.