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Cost of Living in Muscatine

Is it better to rent or buy in Muscatine? Explore median costs, utility estimates, and run the numbers on your own budget to see how far your income goes.

Rent vs. Buy Affordability Calculator

Adjust the sliders to match your scenario. We recommend keeping total housing costs under 40% of your gross income.

$59,947
$980/mo

Median in area: $980

$150,131

Median in area: $150,131

$30,026

If you Rent

$1,178 /mo
Base Rent$980
Est. Utilities$198
% of Income23.6%
Pre-tax Residual$3,818

If you Buy

$1,274 /mo
P&I (7.13%)$810
Taxes & Ins$266
Est. Utilities$198
% of Income25.5%
Pre-tax Residual$3,722

Cost of Living FAQs

Is it cheaper to rent or buy in Muscatine?

Based on median housing data, renting is currently more affordable on a monthly basis in Muscatine. The estimated all-in monthly cost for renting is $1,178, while owning a median-priced home with a 20% down payment is roughly $1,274 per month (a difference of $96).

How much do utilities cost in Muscatine?

The average monthly utility cost (electricity and natural gas) for a typical home in Muscatine is approximately $198. This estimate uses local utility rate schedules combined with median energy consumption profiles.

What is a good salary to live comfortably in Muscatine?

To comfortably afford the median rent and utilities in Muscatine without exceeding the recommended 30% housing-to-income threshold, a household should earn a gross salary of approximately $47,120 per year.