Fairfax, IA vs Underwood, IA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Underwood is 19.2% cheaper than Fairfax. With a cost index of 76 vs 90, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Underwood to Fairfax should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Fairfax is $1,188/month compared to $819/month in Underwood — a 45% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Underwood is more affordable at $227,400 median vs $278,800.

Median household income in Fairfax is $120,552 compared to $90,556 in Underwood (+33.1%). While Fairfax is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Fairfax spend roughly 11.8% of their income on rent, more than the 10.9% in Underwood.