Cost of Living in Montezuma, IA

With a cost of living index of 70, Montezuma, IA is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 30% cheaper than the national average and in line with the Iowa state average. Montezuma is a small community of 1,257 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Montezuma's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $843 (36% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $157,800 (48% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 2.5x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Montezuma is $63,375, which is 16% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 16% 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.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Montezuma. The area sees an average annual temperature of 50.7°F, with summers averaging 73°F and winters around 26°F. Annual rainfall totals 37 inches spread over roughly 109 days. Cold winters mean higher heating bills, an important cost-of-living consideration.

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.