Milford, IA vs Wayland, IA
There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Wayland is 16.4% cheaper than Milford. With a cost index of 63 vs 74, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Wayland to Milford should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.
On the housing front, median rent in Milford is $806/month compared to $693/month in Wayland — a 16% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Wayland is more affordable at $122,200 median vs $211,000.
Median household income in Milford is $60,571 compared to $67,000 in Wayland (-9.6%). Wayland offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Milford spend roughly 16% of their income on rent, more than the 12.4% in Wayland.
Climate-wise, Wayland is notably warmer with an average of 51°F compared to 46.8°F in Milford. Wayland receives more rainfall at 35.7" per year compared to 26.8" in Milford.
Income & Cost
Housing
Salary Equivalency Calculator
What does your salary in one city buy you in the other?
Everyday Prices
BLS Average Prices by metro area
Climate
NOAA 30-year normals (1991-2020)