Chariton, IA vs State Center, IA

Chariton is moderately more affordable than State Center, with a 10.2% lower cost of living index. Chariton scores 60 compared to 67 for State Center, where the US average is 100. This difference means residents of State Center can expect to pay noticeably more for everyday expenses, housing, and services.

On the housing front, median rent in Chariton is $716/month compared to $741/month in State Center — a 3% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Chariton is more affordable at $84,200 median vs $156,300.

Median household income in Chariton is $52,109 compared to $72,303 in State Center (-27.9%). While State Center 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 12.3% in State Center.