Elgin, IA vs West Union, IA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Elgin is 17.8% cheaper than West Union. With a cost index of 58 vs 71, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Elgin to West Union should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Elgin is $634/month compared to $925/month in West Union — a 32% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Elgin is more affordable at $87,300 median vs $133,200.

Median household income in Elgin is $60,114 compared to $50,909 in West Union (+18.1%). Elgin offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Elgin spend roughly 12.7% of their income on rent, less than the 21.8% in West Union.