Ely, IA vs Minden, IA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Minden is 26.6% cheaper than Ely. With a cost index of 67 vs 85, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Minden to Ely should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Ely is $1,014/month compared to $700/month in Minden — a 45% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Minden is more affordable at $163,800 median vs $275,800.

Median household income in Ely is $102,262 compared to $94,250 in Minden (+8.5%). Ely does offer higher incomes, but the salary premium barely offsets the higher cost of living, leaving residents with a tighter budget. Looking at affordability, residents of Ely spend roughly 11.9% of their income on rent, more than the 8.9% in Minden.