Clarion, IA vs Mapleton, IA

Clarion, IA and Mapleton, IA have a very similar cost of living, with only a 0.4% difference in their overall index. Clarion scores 64 while Mapleton 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 Clarion is $764/month compared to $780/month in Mapleton — a 2% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Clarion is more affordable at $107,600 median vs $116,400.

Median household income in Clarion is $58,702 compared to $52,955 in Mapleton (+10.9%). Clarion offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Clarion spend roughly 15.6% of their income on rent, less than the 17.7% in Mapleton.