Melcher-Dallas, IA vs New Hampton, IA

Melcher-Dallas is moderately more affordable than New Hampton, with a 9.3% lower cost of living index. Melcher-Dallas scores 64 compared to 70 for New Hampton, where the US average is 100. This difference means residents of New Hampton can expect to pay noticeably more for everyday expenses, housing, and services.

On the housing front, median rent in Melcher-Dallas is $798/month compared to $838/month in New Hampton — a 5% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Melcher-Dallas is more affordable at $94,600 median vs $159,200.

Median household income in Melcher-Dallas is $72,824 compared to $61,491 in New Hampton (+18.4%). Melcher-Dallas offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Melcher-Dallas spend roughly 13.1% of their income on rent, less than the 16.4% in New Hampton.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (49.5°F vs 49°F). Melcher-Dallas receives more rainfall at 36.6" per year compared to 36.3" in New Hampton.