Dexter, IA vs Lamoni, IA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Lamoni is 17.1% cheaper than Dexter. With a cost index of 61 vs 72, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Lamoni to Dexter should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Dexter is $867/month compared to $676/month in Lamoni — a 28% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Lamoni is more affordable at $107,900 median vs $157,200.

Median household income in Dexter is $83,214 compared to $52,300 in Lamoni (+59.1%). While Dexter is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Dexter spend roughly 12.5% of their income on rent, less than the 15.5% in Lamoni.