Dubuque, IA vs Johnston, IA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Dubuque is 24.3% cheaper than Johnston. With a cost index of 76 vs 100, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Dubuque to Johnston should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Dubuque is $943/month compared to $1,288/month in Johnston — a 27% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Dubuque is more affordable at $193,100 median vs $346,200.

Median household income in Dubuque is $64,985 compared to $103,430 in Johnston (-37.2%). While Johnston is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Dubuque spend roughly 17.4% of their income on rent, more than the 14.9% in Johnston.