Cost of Living in West Bend, IA

With a cost of living index of 61, West Bend, IA is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 39% cheaper than the national average and 11% below the Iowa state average of 71. West Bend is a small community of 889 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in West Bend's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $548 (58% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $147,800 (52% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 1.8x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in West Bend is $84,286, which is 12% higher than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 8% 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 West Bend. The area sees an average annual temperature of 44.6°F, with summers averaging 69°F and winters around 18°F. Annual rainfall totals 29.3 inches spread over roughly 106 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.