Cost of Living in Waukon, IA

With a cost of living index of 65, Waukon, IA is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 35% cheaper than the national average and 7% below the Iowa state average of 71. Waukon is a small community of 3,796 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Waukon's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $719 (45% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $133,700 (56% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 2.4x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Waukon is $56,250, which is 25% lower 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. 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 Waukon. The area sees an average annual temperature of 48.1°F, with summers averaging 71°F and winters around 23°F. Annual rainfall totals 33.9 inches spread over roughly 133 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.