Cost of Living in Menlo, IA

With a cost of living index of 74, Menlo, IA is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 26% cheaper than the national average and 3% above the Iowa state average of 71. Menlo is a small community of 355 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Menlo's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $1,078 (18% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $107,100 (65% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 1.4x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Menlo is $78,333, which is 4% higher than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 17% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Menlo. The area sees an average annual temperature of 50.9°F, with summers averaging 74°F and winters around 26°F. Annual rainfall totals 36.6 inches spread over roughly 113 days. Cold winters mean higher heating bills, an important cost-of-living consideration.

Everyday prices in the Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA (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.