Oelwein, IA vs West Union, IA

Oelwein is moderately more affordable than West Union, with a 11.2% lower cost of living index. Oelwein scores 63 compared to 71 for West Union, where the US average is 100. This difference means residents of West Union can expect to pay noticeably more for everyday expenses, housing, and services.

On the housing front, median rent in Oelwein is $762/month compared to $925/month in West Union — a 18% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Oelwein is more affordable at $96,800 median vs $133,200.

Median household income in Oelwein is $49,821 compared to $50,909 in West Union (-2.1%). West Union 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 Oelwein spend roughly 18.4% of their income on rent, less than the 21.8% in West Union.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (49°F vs 49°F). West Union receives more rainfall at 36.3" per year compared to 36.3" in Oelwein.