Cost of Living in Pella, IA

With a cost of living index of 85, Pella, IA is a very affordable place to live. Living here is 15% cheaper than the national average and 14% above the Iowa state average of 71. Pella is a smaller community of 10,624 residents, where everyday costs can differ substantially from nearby larger cities.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Pella's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $1,041 (21% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $259,600 (15% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 3.2x the median household income — a moderately affordable ratio by today's standards.

The median household income in Pella is $81,201, which is 8% higher than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 15% 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 Pella. The area sees an average annual temperature of 49.5°F, with summers averaging 72°F and winters around 25°F. Annual rainfall totals 36.6 inches spread over roughly 115 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.