Cost of Living in Red Oak, IA

With a cost of living index of 63, Red Oak, IA is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 37% cheaper than the national average and 8% below the Iowa state average of 71. Red Oak is a smaller community of 5,542 residents, where everyday costs can differ substantially from nearby larger cities.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Red Oak's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $768 (42% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $91,600 (70% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 1.7x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Red Oak is $52,996, which is 29% lower 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. 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 Red Oak. The area sees an average annual temperature of 52.4°F, with summers averaging 76°F and winters around 27°F. Annual rainfall totals 31.9 inches spread over roughly 103 days. Cold winters mean higher heating bills, an important cost-of-living consideration.

Everyday prices in the Omaha, NE-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.