Spencer, IA vs Windsor Heights, IA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Spencer is 25.1% cheaper than Windsor Heights. With a cost index of 71 vs 94, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Spencer to Windsor Heights should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Spencer is $795/month compared to $1,355/month in Windsor Heights — a 41% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Spencer is more affordable at $178,300 median vs $251,800.

Median household income in Spencer is $57,068 compared to $89,083 in Windsor Heights (-35.9%). While Windsor Heights 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, less than the 18.3% in Windsor Heights.

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