Alden, IA vs Atkins, IA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Alden is 22.7% cheaper than Atkins. With a cost index of 57 vs 74, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Alden to Atkins should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Alden is $562/month compared to $585/month in Atkins — a 4% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Alden is more affordable at $102,500 median vs $302,600.

Median household income in Alden is $55,625 compared to $115,625 in Atkins (-51.9%). While Atkins is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Alden spend roughly 12.1% of their income on rent, more than the 6.1% in Atkins.