Cowden, IL vs Rome, IL

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Cowden is 18.5% cheaper than Rome. With a cost index of 63 vs 77, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Cowden to Rome should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Cowden is $767/month compared to $1,107/month in Rome — a 31% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Cowden is more affordable at $76,200 median vs $155,700.

Median household income in Cowden is $42,083 compared to $95,263 in Rome (-55.8%). While Rome is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Cowden spend roughly 21.9% of their income on rent, more than the 13.9% in Rome.