Emmetsburg, IA vs Fayette, IA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Emmetsburg is 16.9% cheaper than Fayette. With a cost index of 59 vs 71, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Emmetsburg to Fayette should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Emmetsburg is $589/month compared to $963/month in Fayette — a 39% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Emmetsburg is more affordable at $114,600 median vs $123,300.

Median household income in Emmetsburg is $57,353 compared to $39,297 in Fayette (+45.9%). Emmetsburg offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Emmetsburg spend roughly 12.3% of their income on rent, less than the 29.4% in Fayette.