Marion, IA vs Urbandale, IA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Marion is 15.1% cheaper than Urbandale. With a cost index of 80 vs 94, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Marion to Urbandale should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Marion is $978/month compared to $1,176/month in Urbandale — a 17% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Marion is more affordable at $230,800 median vs $318,800.

Median household income in Marion is $87,105 compared to $113,086 in Urbandale (-23%). While Urbandale 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, more than the 12.5% in Urbandale.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (48.3°F vs 50.9°F). Urbandale receives more rainfall at 36.6" per year compared to 35.9" in Marion.