Cost of Living in Whittemore, IA

With a cost of living index of 55, Whittemore, IA is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 46% cheaper than the national average and 17% below the Iowa state average of 71. Whittemore is a small community of 576 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Whittemore's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $508 (61% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $88,700 (71% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 1.2x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Whittemore is $77,054, which is 3% 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 Whittemore. 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.