Muscatine, IA vs Storm Lake, IA

Muscatine, IA and Storm Lake, IA have a very similar cost of living, with only a 4.5% difference in their overall index. Muscatine scores 74 while Storm Lake scores 70 on the cost of living index, where 100 represents the national average. The day-to-day expenses for residents in both cities are comparable, though differences emerge when looking at specific categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Muscatine is $979/month compared to $830/month in Storm Lake — a 18% difference. Interestingly, home values tell a different story: while Storm Lake has cheaper rent, Muscatine actually has lower median home values ($146,900 vs $163,600).

Median household income in Muscatine is $59,332 compared to $58,341 in Storm Lake (+1.7%). Muscatine 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 Muscatine spend roughly 19.8% of their income on rent, more than the 17.1% in Storm Lake.

Climate-wise, Muscatine is notably warmer with an average of 51.2°F compared to 46.8°F in Storm Lake. Muscatine receives more rainfall at 38.3" per year compared to 26.8" in Storm Lake.