Emmetsburg, IA vs Grinnell, IA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Emmetsburg is 21% cheaper than Grinnell. With a cost index of 59 vs 75, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Emmetsburg to Grinnell should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Emmetsburg is $589/month compared to $876/month in Grinnell — a 33% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Emmetsburg is more affordable at $114,600 median vs $191,700.

Median household income in Emmetsburg is $57,353 compared to $64,426 in Grinnell (-11%). The higher salaries in Grinnell partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Emmetsburg spend roughly 12.3% of their income on rent, less than the 16.3% in Grinnell.