Alden, IA vs Sumner, IA

Alden, IA and Sumner, IA have a very similar cost of living, with only a 1.4% difference in their overall index. Alden scores 57 while Sumner scores 58 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 $598/month in Sumner — a 6% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Alden is more affordable at $102,500 median vs $111,900.

Median household income in Alden is $55,625 compared to $56,174 in Sumner (-1%). The higher salaries in Sumner partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Alden spend roughly 12.1% of their income on rent, less than the 12.8% in Sumner.