Charleston, AR vs Ward, AR

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Charleston is 23.8% cheaper than Ward. With a cost index of 62 vs 81, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Charleston to Ward should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Charleston is $738/month compared to $1,147/month in Ward — a 36% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Charleston is more affordable at $116,500 median vs $182,100.

Median household income in Charleston is $60,058 compared to $78,841 in Ward (-23.8%). The higher salaries in Ward partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Charleston spend roughly 14.7% of their income on rent, less than the 17.5% in Ward.