Dysart, IA vs Forest City, IA

Dysart, IA and Forest City, IA have a very similar cost of living, with only a 3% difference in their overall index. Dysart scores 67 while Forest City scores 65 on the cost of living index, where 100 represents the national average. The day-to-day expenses for residents in both cities are comparable, though differences emerge when looking at specific categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Dysart is $739/month compared to $719/month in Forest City — a 3% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Forest City is more affordable at $136,400 median vs $156,500.

Median household income in Dysart is $62,308 compared to $62,917 in Forest City (-1%). Forest City offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Dysart spend roughly 14.2% of their income on rent, more than the 13.7% in Forest City.