Hiawatha, IA presents a cost of living index that mirrors the nationwide average in various categories. Housing costs approximately 15% below the national average, while groceries are only 10% below. Utilities, however, slightly exceed the national average by 5%, making this a notable factor to consider. Transportation costs in Hiawatha are about 11% below the national average, providing a minor financial relief for residents. Healthcare expenses are 8% below the national average, offering additional savings. Miscellaneous costs also stand at 13% below the national average, enhancing the overall affordability in this area.
Hiawatha, IA, offers a favorable cost of living compared to the nationwide average, which stands at 100. The housing index in Hiawatha is notably lower at 85. This means residents can expect to spend 15% less on housing than the national average. The reduced housing costs make Hiawatha an attractive option for those seeking more affordable living arrangements without sacrificing essential living conditions.
Additionally, other key areas such as groceries, utilities, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous expenses remain close to the national average. For example, groceries are priced at 90, utilities at 95, transportation at 89, healthcare at 92, and miscellaneous expenses at 87. These indices indicate that while housing stands out as a cost-saving area, other living expenses in Hiawatha are nearly on par with the average costs across the country. This balanced cost structure allows residents to benefit from lower housing costs while maintaining a similar quality of life in other essential areas.