Marion, IA vs Ottumwa, IA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Ottumwa is 17.1% cheaper than Marion. With a cost index of 68 vs 80, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Ottumwa to Marion should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Marion is $978/month compared to $956/month in Ottumwa — a 2% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Ottumwa is more affordable at $92,400 median vs $230,800.

Median household income in Marion is $87,105 compared to $56,994 in Ottumwa (+52.8%). While Marion is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Marion spend roughly 13.5% of their income on rent, less than the 20.1% in Ottumwa.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (48.3°F vs 50.7°F). Ottumwa receives more rainfall at 37" per year compared to 35.9" in Marion.