Algona, IA vs Mediapolis, IA

Algona, IA and Mediapolis, IA have a very similar cost of living, with only a 4.5% difference in their overall index. Algona scores 72 while Mediapolis scores 75 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 Algona is $887/month compared to $968/month in Mediapolis — a 8% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Algona is more affordable at $156,200 median vs $167,300.

Median household income in Algona is $52,542 compared to $71,250 in Mediapolis (-26.3%). While Mediapolis is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Algona spend roughly 20.3% of their income on rent, more than the 16.3% in Mediapolis.