Chariton, IA vs Lenox, IA

Chariton, IA and Lenox, IA have a very similar cost of living, with only a 4.9% difference in their overall index. Chariton scores 60 while Lenox scores 64 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 Chariton is $716/month compared to $759/month in Lenox — a 6% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Chariton is more affordable at $84,200 median vs $106,000.

Median household income in Chariton is $52,109 compared to $59,750 in Lenox (-12.8%). While Lenox is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Chariton spend roughly 16.5% of their income on rent, more than the 15.2% in Lenox.