Cambridge, IA vs Clarion, IA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Clarion is 23.7% cheaper than Cambridge. With a cost index of 64 vs 79, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Clarion to Cambridge should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Cambridge is $1,080/month compared to $764/month in Clarion — a 41% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Clarion is more affordable at $107,600 median vs $172,800.

Median household income in Cambridge is $74,531 compared to $58,702 in Clarion (+27%). While Cambridge is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Cambridge spend roughly 17.4% of their income on rent, more than the 15.6% in Clarion.