Alden, IA vs Northwood, IA

Alden, IA and Northwood, IA have a very similar cost of living, with only a 4.1% difference in their overall index. Alden scores 57 while Northwood scores 60 on the cost of living index, where 100 represents the national average. The day-to-day expenses for residents in both cities are comparable, though differences emerge when looking at specific categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Alden is $562/month compared to $583/month in Northwood — a 4% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Alden is more affordable at $102,500 median vs $124,800.

Median household income in Alden is $55,625 compared to $64,615 in Northwood (-13.9%). While Northwood 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 10.8% in Northwood.