Le Mars, IA vs Waukon, IA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Waukon is 17.6% cheaper than Le Mars. With a cost index of 65 vs 76, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Waukon to Le Mars should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Le Mars is $908/month compared to $719/month in Waukon — a 26% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Waukon is more affordable at $133,700 median vs $202,200.

Median household income in Le Mars is $72,381 compared to $56,250 in Waukon (+28.7%). While Le Mars 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, less than the 15.3% in Waukon.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (48.4°F vs 48.1°F). Waukon receives more rainfall at 33.9" per year compared to 29.3" in Le Mars.