Marshalltown, IA vs West Des Moines, IA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Marshalltown is 26.6% cheaper than West Des Moines. With a cost index of 68 vs 92, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Marshalltown to West Des Moines should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Marshalltown is $864/month compared to $1,194/month in West Des Moines — a 28% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Marshalltown is more affordable at $117,100 median vs $286,300.

Median household income in Marshalltown is $68,854 compared to $84,925 in West Des Moines (-18.9%). The higher salaries in West Des Moines partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Marshalltown spend roughly 15.1% of their income on rent, less than the 16.9% in West Des Moines.

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