Grimes, IA vs Urbandale, IA

Grimes, IA and Urbandale, IA have a very similar cost of living, with only a 3.9% difference in their overall index. Grimes scores 91 while Urbandale scores 94 on the cost of living index, where 100 represents the national average. The day-to-day expenses for residents in both cities are comparable, though differences emerge when looking at specific categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Grimes is $1,156/month compared to $1,176/month in Urbandale — a 2% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Grimes is more affordable at $281,000 median vs $318,800.

Median household income in Grimes is $104,497 compared to $113,086 in Urbandale (-7.6%). While Urbandale is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Grimes spend roughly 13.3% of their income on rent, more than the 12.5% in Urbandale.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (50.9°F vs 50.9°F). Urbandale receives more rainfall at 36.6" per year compared to 36.6" in Grimes.