Atkins, IA vs Oelwein, IA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Oelwein is 17.8% cheaper than Atkins. With a cost index of 63 vs 74, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Oelwein to Atkins should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Atkins is $585/month compared to $762/month in Oelwein — a 23% difference. Interestingly, home values tell a different story: while Atkins has cheaper rent, Oelwein actually has lower median home values ($96,800 vs $302,600).

Median household income in Atkins is $115,625 compared to $49,821 in Oelwein (+132.1%). While Atkins is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Atkins spend roughly 6.1% of their income on rent, less than the 18.4% in Oelwein.