Elma, IA vs Modale, IA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Elma is 15.3% cheaper than Modale. With a cost index of 58 vs 68, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Elma to Modale should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Elma is $668/month compared to $975/month in Modale — a 32% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Elma is more affordable at $71,400 median vs $79,200.

Median household income in Elma is $41,528 compared to $50,833 in Modale (-18.3%). While Modale is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Elma spend roughly 19.3% of their income on rent, less than the 23% in Modale.