Rock Falls, IA vs Salem, IA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Salem is 16% cheaper than Rock Falls. With a cost index of 64 vs 74, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Salem to Rock Falls should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Rock Falls is $967/month compared to $850/month in Salem — a 14% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Salem is more affordable at $75,000 median vs $156,300.

Median household income in Rock Falls is $66,875 compared to $59,583 in Salem (+12.2%). The higher salaries in Rock Falls partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Rock Falls spend roughly 17.4% of their income on rent, more than the 17.1% in Salem.

Climate-wise, Salem is notably warmer with an average of 51.9°F compared to 45.6°F in Rock Falls. Salem receives more rainfall at 37.9" per year compared to 36.3" in Rock Falls.