Lowden, IA vs West Union, IA

Lowden, IA and West Union, IA have a very similar cost of living, with only a 4.2% difference in their overall index. Lowden scores 68 while West Union scores 71 on the cost of living index, where 100 represents the national average. The day-to-day expenses for residents in both cities are comparable, though differences emerge when looking at specific categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Lowden is $886/month compared to $925/month in West Union — a 4% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Lowden is more affordable at $111,000 median vs $133,200.

Median household income in Lowden is $54,773 compared to $50,909 in West Union (+7.6%). Lowden offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Lowden spend roughly 19.4% of their income on rent, less than the 21.8% in West Union.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (49.9°F vs 49°F). West Union receives more rainfall at 36.3" per year compared to 36.2" in Lowden.