Denver, IA vs Elgin, IA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Elgin is 25.1% cheaper than Denver. With a cost index of 58 vs 73, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Elgin to Denver should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Denver is $788/month compared to $634/month in Elgin — a 24% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Elgin is more affordable at $87,300 median vs $221,100.

Median household income in Denver is $90,156 compared to $60,114 in Elgin (+50%). While Denver is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Denver spend roughly 10.5% of their income on rent, less than the 12.7% in Elgin.