Grinnell, IA vs Waukee, IA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Grinnell is 24.1% cheaper than Waukee. With a cost index of 75 vs 98, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Grinnell to Waukee should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Grinnell is $876/month compared to $1,290/month in Waukee — a 32% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Grinnell is more affordable at $191,700 median vs $328,200.

Median household income in Grinnell is $64,426 compared to $106,728 in Waukee (-39.6%). While Waukee 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 14.5% in Waukee.

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