Fenton, IA vs Paullina, IA

Fenton is moderately more affordable than Paullina, with a 12.8% lower cost of living index. Fenton scores 58 compared to 66 for Paullina, where the US average is 100. This difference means residents of Paullina can expect to pay noticeably more for everyday expenses, housing, and services.

On the housing front, median rent in Fenton is $710/month compared to $810/month in Paullina — a 12% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Fenton is more affordable at $52,400 median vs $118,800.

Median household income in Fenton is $53,125 compared to $57,308 in Paullina (-7.3%). The higher salaries in Paullina partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Fenton spend roughly 16% of their income on rent, less than the 17% in Paullina.