Roland, IA vs Waukon, IA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Waukon is 17.7% cheaper than Roland. With a cost index of 65 vs 76, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Waukon to Roland should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Roland is $983/month compared to $719/month in Waukon — a 37% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Waukon is more affordable at $133,700 median vs $173,100.

Median household income in Roland is $84,779 compared to $56,250 in Waukon (+50.7%). While Roland is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Roland spend roughly 13.9% of their income on rent, less than the 15.3% in Waukon.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (48.6°F vs 48.1°F). Roland receives more rainfall at 35.9" per year compared to 33.9" in Waukon.