Magnolia, KY vs Sturgis, KY

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Sturgis is 23.4% cheaper than Magnolia. With a cost index of 60 vs 74, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Sturgis to Magnolia should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Magnolia is $1,167/month compared to $703/month in Sturgis — a 66% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Sturgis is more affordable at $83,400 median vs $95,700.

Median household income in Magnolia is $45,083 compared to $43,938 in Sturgis (+2.6%). Magnolia 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 Magnolia spend roughly 31.1% of their income on rent, more than the 19.2% in Sturgis. The Sturgis ratio exceeds the commonly recommended 30% threshold, which can put pressure on household budgets.