Spencer, IA vs Waukee, IA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Spencer is 28.4% cheaper than Waukee. With a cost index of 71 vs 98, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Spencer to Waukee should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Spencer is $795/month compared to $1,290/month in Waukee — a 38% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Spencer is more affordable at $178,300 median vs $328,200.

Median household income in Spencer is $57,068 compared to $106,728 in Waukee (-46.5%). While Waukee is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Spencer spend roughly 16.7% of their income on rent, more than the 14.5% in Waukee.

Climate-wise, Waukee is notably warmer with an average of 50.9°F compared to 46.8°F in Spencer. Waukee receives more rainfall at 36.6" per year compared to 26.8" in Spencer.