Norwalk, IA vs Ottumwa, IA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Ottumwa is 19.1% cheaper than Norwalk. With a cost index of 68 vs 81, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Ottumwa to Norwalk should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Norwalk is $869/month compared to $956/month in Ottumwa — a 9% difference. Interestingly, home values tell a different story: while Norwalk has cheaper rent, Ottumwa actually has lower median home values ($92,400 vs $275,700).

Median household income in Norwalk is $94,583 compared to $56,994 in Ottumwa (+66%). While Norwalk is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Norwalk spend roughly 11% of their income on rent, less than the 20.1% in Ottumwa.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (50.9°F vs 50.7°F). Ottumwa receives more rainfall at 37" per year compared to 36.6" in Norwalk.