Chariton, IA vs Van Meter, IA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Chariton is 26% cheaper than Van Meter. With a cost index of 60 vs 82, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Chariton to Van Meter should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Chariton is $716/month compared to $947/month in Van Meter — a 24% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Chariton is more affordable at $84,200 median vs $250,300.

Median household income in Chariton is $52,109 compared to $133,750 in Van Meter (-61%). While Van Meter 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 8.5% in Van Meter.