Grinnell, IA vs Johnston, IA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Grinnell is 25.2% cheaper than Johnston. With a cost index of 75 vs 100, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Grinnell to Johnston should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Grinnell is $876/month compared to $1,288/month in Johnston — a 32% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Grinnell is more affordable at $191,700 median vs $346,200.

Median household income in Grinnell is $64,426 compared to $103,430 in Johnston (-37.7%). While Johnston is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Grinnell spend roughly 16.3% of their income on rent, more than the 14.9% in Johnston.

Climate-wise, Johnston is notably warmer with an average of 50.9°F compared to 47.7°F in Grinnell. Johnston receives more rainfall at 36.6" per year compared to 32.8" in Grinnell.