Emmetsburg, IA vs Gilbert, IA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Emmetsburg is 26.9% cheaper than Gilbert. With a cost index of 59 vs 81, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Emmetsburg to Gilbert should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Emmetsburg is $589/month compared to $887/month in Gilbert — a 34% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Emmetsburg is more affordable at $114,600 median vs $267,200.

Median household income in Emmetsburg is $57,353 compared to $112,250 in Gilbert (-48.9%). While Gilbert is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Emmetsburg spend roughly 12.3% of their income on rent, more than the 9.5% in Gilbert.