Emmetsburg, IA vs Montezuma, IA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Emmetsburg is 16% cheaper than Montezuma. With a cost index of 59 vs 70, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Emmetsburg to Montezuma should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Emmetsburg is $589/month compared to $843/month in Montezuma — a 30% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Emmetsburg is more affordable at $114,600 median vs $157,800.

Median household income in Emmetsburg is $57,353 compared to $63,375 in Montezuma (-9.5%). The higher salaries in Montezuma 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% in Montezuma.