Epworth, IA vs Melbourne, IA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Melbourne is 17.4% cheaper than Epworth. With a cost index of 66 vs 78, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Melbourne to Epworth should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Epworth is $924/month compared to $722/month in Melbourne — a 28% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Melbourne is more affordable at $147,400 median vs $229,200.

Median household income in Epworth is $73,571 compared to $82,857 in Melbourne (-11.2%). Melbourne offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Epworth spend roughly 15.1% of their income on rent, more than the 10.5% in Melbourne.