Belle Fourche, SD vs Box Elder, SD

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Belle Fourche is 20.3% cheaper than Box Elder. With a cost index of 76 vs 95, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Belle Fourche to Box Elder should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Belle Fourche is $947/month compared to $1,354/month in Box Elder — a 30% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Belle Fourche is more affordable at $188,800 median vs $271,800.

Median household income in Belle Fourche is $59,920 compared to $73,698 in Box Elder (-18.7%). The higher salaries in Box Elder partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Belle Fourche spend roughly 19% of their income on rent, less than the 22% in Box Elder.

Climate-wise, Box Elder is notably warmer with an average of 46.7°F compared to 41.1°F in Belle Fourche. Belle Fourche receives more rainfall at 29.2" per year compared to 17.4" in Box Elder.