Monticello, IA vs Pleasant Hill, IA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Monticello is 29.9% cheaper than Pleasant Hill. With a cost index of 65 vs 92, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Monticello to Pleasant Hill should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Monticello is $659/month compared to $1,204/month in Pleasant Hill — a 45% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Monticello is more affordable at $160,500 median vs $284,100.

Median household income in Monticello is $67,788 compared to $86,890 in Pleasant Hill (-22%). The higher salaries in Pleasant Hill partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Monticello spend roughly 11.7% of their income on rent, less than the 16.6% in Pleasant Hill.

Climate-wise, Pleasant Hill is notably warmer with an average of 50.9°F compared to 47.2°F in Monticello. Monticello receives more rainfall at 38.2" per year compared to 36.6" in Pleasant Hill.