Laurel, NE vs Orleans, NE
There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Orleans is 28% cheaper than Laurel. With a cost index of 52 vs 66, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Orleans to Laurel should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.
On the housing front, median rent in Laurel is $719/month compared to $506/month in Orleans — a 42% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Orleans is more affordable at $55,000 median vs $152,500.
Median household income in Laurel is $56,250 compared to $60,000 in Orleans (-6.3%). Orleans offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Laurel spend roughly 15.3% of their income on rent, more than the 10.1% in Orleans.
Climate-wise, Orleans is notably warmer with an average of 53.9°F compared to 48.7°F in Laurel. Laurel receives more rainfall at 28.7" per year compared to 21.5" in Orleans.
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Climate
NOAA 30-year normals (1991-2020)