Emmetsburg, IA vs Waverly, IA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Emmetsburg is 22.3% cheaper than Waverly. 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 Waverly should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Emmetsburg is $589/month compared to $909/month in Waverly — a 35% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Emmetsburg is more affordable at $114,600 median vs $215,200.

Median household income in Emmetsburg is $57,353 compared to $78,429 in Waverly (-26.9%). While Waverly 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, less than the 13.9% in Waverly.