Le Mars, IA vs Waukee, IA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Le Mars is 22.9% cheaper than Waukee. With a cost index of 76 vs 98, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Le Mars to Waukee should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Le Mars is $908/month compared to $1,290/month in Waukee — a 30% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Le Mars is more affordable at $202,200 median vs $328,200.

Median household income in Le Mars is $72,381 compared to $106,728 in Waukee (-32.2%). 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 Le Mars spend roughly 15.1% of their income on rent, more than the 14.5% in Waukee.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (48.4°F vs 50.9°F). Waukee receives more rainfall at 36.6" per year compared to 29.3" in Le Mars.