Charles City, IA vs Oskaloosa, IA

Charles City is moderately more affordable than Oskaloosa, with a 12.2% lower cost of living index. Charles City scores 61 compared to 69 for Oskaloosa, where the US average is 100. This difference means residents of Oskaloosa can expect to pay noticeably more for everyday expenses, housing, and services.

On the housing front, median rent in Charles City is $628/month compared to $880/month in Oskaloosa — a 29% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Charles City is more affordable at $118,900 median vs $128,900.

Median household income in Charles City is $56,734 compared to $62,172 in Oskaloosa (-8.7%). The higher salaries in Oskaloosa partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Charles City spend roughly 13.3% of their income on rent, less than the 17% in Oskaloosa.