Calmar, IA vs Waucoma, IA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Waucoma is 18.1% cheaper than Calmar. With a cost index of 58 vs 69, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Waucoma to Calmar should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Calmar is $684/month compared to $588/month in Waucoma — a 16% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Waucoma is more affordable at $102,100 median vs $194,600.

Median household income in Calmar is $81,583 compared to $71,250 in Waucoma (+14.5%). The higher salaries in Calmar partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Calmar spend roughly 10.1% of their income on rent, more than the 9.9% in Waucoma.