Monticello, IA vs Van Meter, IA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Monticello is 20.9% cheaper than Van Meter. With a cost index of 65 vs 82, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Monticello to Van Meter should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Monticello is $659/month compared to $947/month in Van Meter — a 30% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Monticello is more affordable at $160,500 median vs $250,300.

Median household income in Monticello is $67,788 compared to $133,750 in Van Meter (-49.3%). While Van Meter is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Monticello spend roughly 11.7% of their income on rent, more than the 8.5% in Van Meter.

Climate-wise, Van Meter 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 Van Meter.