Johnston, IA vs Norwalk, IA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Norwalk is 22.7% cheaper than Johnston. With a cost index of 81 vs 100, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Norwalk to Johnston should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Johnston is $1,288/month compared to $869/month in Norwalk — a 48% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Norwalk is more affordable at $275,700 median vs $346,200.

Median household income in Johnston is $103,430 compared to $94,583 in Norwalk (+9.4%). Johnston does offer higher incomes, but the salary premium barely offsets the higher cost of living, leaving residents with a tighter budget. Looking at affordability, residents of Johnston spend roughly 14.9% of their income on rent, more than the 11% in Norwalk.

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