Marshalltown, IA vs Norwalk, IA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Marshalltown is 16.9% cheaper than Norwalk. With a cost index of 68 vs 81, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Marshalltown to Norwalk should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Marshalltown is $864/month compared to $869/month in Norwalk — a 1% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Marshalltown is more affordable at $117,100 median vs $275,700.

Median household income in Marshalltown is $68,854 compared to $94,583 in Norwalk (-27.2%). While Norwalk is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Marshalltown spend roughly 15.1% of their income on rent, more than the 11% in Norwalk.

Climate-wise, Norwalk is notably warmer with an average of 50.9°F compared to 47.7°F in Marshalltown. Norwalk receives more rainfall at 36.6" per year compared to 32.8" in Marshalltown.