Arkansas City, KS vs Iola, KS

Arkansas City, KS and Iola, KS have a very similar cost of living, with only a 4.3% difference in their overall index. Arkansas City scores 61 while Iola 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 Arkansas City is $762/month compared to $689/month in Iola — a 11% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Iola is more affordable at $78,100 median vs $81,700.

Median household income in Arkansas City is $53,475 compared to $50,417 in Iola (+6.1%). While Arkansas City is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Arkansas City spend roughly 17.1% of their income on rent, more than the 16.4% in Iola.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (58.2°F vs 58°F). Iola receives more rainfall at 40.7" per year compared to 34.9" in Arkansas City.