Parkersburg, IA vs Swea City, IA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Swea City is 21.6% cheaper than Parkersburg. With a cost index of 56 vs 68, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Swea City to Parkersburg should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Parkersburg is $695/month compared to $670/month in Swea City — a 4% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Swea City is more affordable at $48,800 median vs $200,000.

Median household income in Parkersburg is $73,482 compared to $50,625 in Swea City (+45.1%). While Parkersburg is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Parkersburg spend roughly 11.3% of their income on rent, less than the 15.9% in Swea City.

Climate-wise, Parkersburg is notably warmer with an average of 49°F compared to 44.6°F in Swea City. Parkersburg receives more rainfall at 36.3" per year compared to 29.3" in Swea City.