Cost of Living in Cushing, IA

With a cost of living index of 58, Cushing, IA is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 42% cheaper than the national average and 13% below the Iowa state average of 71. Cushing is a small community of 213 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Cushing's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $725 (45% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $57,700 (81% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 0.8x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Cushing is $70,139, which is 7% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 12% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum. Lower incomes here are balanced by the significantly lower cost of living, stretching each dollar further.

Everyday prices in the Sioux City, IA-NE-SD (Metropolitan Statistical Area) metro area are generally below the national average. Out of 6 common items tracked by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 6 are priced lower than the US average. These real-world prices — from groceries to electricity — add up and should be factored into any cost of living comparison.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.