Emmetsburg, IA vs Le Mars, IA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Emmetsburg is 22.2% cheaper than Le Mars. With a cost index of 59 vs 76, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Emmetsburg to Le Mars should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Emmetsburg is $589/month compared to $908/month in Le Mars — a 35% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Emmetsburg is more affordable at $114,600 median vs $202,200.

Median household income in Emmetsburg is $57,353 compared to $72,381 in Le Mars (-20.8%). The higher salaries in Le Mars 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 15.1% in Le Mars.