Urbandale, IA vs Waukee, IA

Urbandale, IA and Waukee, IA have a very similar cost of living, with only a 4.3% difference in their overall index. Urbandale scores 94 while Waukee scores 98 on the cost of living index, where 100 represents the national average. The day-to-day expenses for residents in both cities are comparable, though differences emerge when looking at specific categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Urbandale is $1,176/month compared to $1,290/month in Waukee — a 9% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Urbandale is more affordable at $318,800 median vs $328,200.

Median household income in Urbandale is $113,086 compared to $106,728 in Waukee (+6%). Urbandale offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Urbandale spend roughly 12.5% of their income on rent, less than the 14.5% in Waukee.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (50.9°F vs 50.9°F). Waukee receives more rainfall at 36.6" per year compared to 36.6" in Urbandale.