Gardner, IL vs Iuka, IL

The cost of living difference between Gardner, IL and Iuka, IL is dramatic. Iuka is 34.4% cheaper than Gardner, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Gardner has a cost index of 82 while Iuka sits at 61, making this one of the more striking comparisons on our site. Relocating between these cities would require a serious reassessment of budget and lifestyle expectations.

On the housing front, median rent in Gardner is $1,024/month compared to $706/month in Iuka — a 45% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Iuka is more affordable at $72,700 median vs $183,300.

Median household income in Gardner is $82,125 compared to $51,563 in Iuka (+59.3%). While Gardner is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Gardner spend roughly 15% of their income on rent, less than the 16.4% in Iuka.

Climate-wise, Iuka is notably warmer with an average of 57.7°F compared to 49.4°F in Gardner. Iuka receives more rainfall at 43.4" per year compared to 33.8" in Gardner.