Milford, IA vs New Sharon, IA
There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. New Sharon is 24.3% cheaper than Milford. With a cost index of 59 vs 74, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from New Sharon to Milford should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.
On the housing front, median rent in Milford is $806/month compared to $564/month in New Sharon — a 43% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: New Sharon is more affordable at $125,000 median vs $211,000.
Median household income in Milford is $60,571 compared to $60,000 in New Sharon (+1%). Milford does offer higher incomes, but the salary premium barely offsets the higher cost of living, leaving residents with a tighter budget. Looking at affordability, residents of Milford spend roughly 16% of their income on rent, more than the 11.3% in New Sharon.
Climate-wise, New Sharon is notably warmer with an average of 50.7°F compared to 46.8°F in Milford. New Sharon receives more rainfall at 37" per year compared to 26.8" in Milford.
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Climate
NOAA 30-year normals (1991-2020)