Hamilton, IN vs Monroe, IN

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Monroe is 27.3% cheaper than Hamilton. With a cost index of 65 vs 83, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Monroe to Hamilton should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Hamilton is $929/month compared to $670/month in Monroe — a 39% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Monroe is more affordable at $145,300 median vs $265,600.

Median household income in Hamilton is $66,884 compared to $70,000 in Monroe (-4.5%). Monroe offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Hamilton spend roughly 16.7% of their income on rent, more than the 11.5% in Monroe.