Dubuque, IA vs Iowa City, IA

Dubuque is moderately more affordable than Iowa City, with a 13.9% lower cost of living index. Dubuque scores 76 compared to 88 for Iowa City, where the US average is 100. This difference means residents of Iowa City can expect to pay noticeably more for everyday expenses, housing, and services.

On the housing front, median rent in Dubuque is $943/month compared to $1,094/month in Iowa City — a 14% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Dubuque is more affordable at $193,100 median vs $273,600.

Median household income in Dubuque is $64,985 compared to $57,533 in Iowa City (+13%). Dubuque offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Dubuque spend roughly 17.4% of their income on rent, less than the 22.8% in Iowa City.