Altoona, KS vs Auburn, KS
There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Altoona is 16.8% cheaper than Auburn. With a cost index of 57 vs 68, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Altoona to Auburn should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.
On the housing front, median rent in Altoona is $706/month compared to $889/month in Auburn — a 21% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Altoona is more affordable at $50,200 median vs $135,700.
Median household income in Altoona is $44,107 compared to $63,382 in Auburn (-30.4%). While Auburn is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Altoona spend roughly 19.2% of their income on rent, more than the 16.8% in Auburn.
Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (58°F vs 55.4°F). Altoona receives more rainfall at 40.7" per year compared to 36.7" in Auburn.
Income & Cost
Housing
Salary Equivalency Calculator
What does your salary in one city buy you in the other?
Everyday Prices
BLS Average Prices by metro area
Climate
NOAA 30-year normals (1991-2020)