Marshalltown, IA vs Urbandale, IA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Marshalltown is 28.3% cheaper than Urbandale. With a cost index of 68 vs 94, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Marshalltown to Urbandale should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Marshalltown is $864/month compared to $1,176/month in Urbandale — a 27% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Marshalltown is more affordable at $117,100 median vs $318,800.

Median household income in Marshalltown is $68,854 compared to $113,086 in Urbandale (-39.1%). 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 Marshalltown spend roughly 15.1% of their income on rent, more than the 12.5% in Urbandale.

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