Dubuque, IA vs Waukee, IA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Dubuque is 23.2% cheaper than Waukee. With a cost index of 76 vs 98, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Dubuque to Waukee should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Dubuque is $943/month compared to $1,290/month in Waukee — a 27% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Dubuque is more affordable at $193,100 median vs $328,200.

Median household income in Dubuque is $64,985 compared to $106,728 in Waukee (-39.1%). While Waukee 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 14.5% in Waukee.