Cost of Living in Emerson, IA
Cost indexes, living wages, and fair market rents — 2024 Data
Cost of Living Overview
Overall Index
81.7
100 = national avg
-18.3 vs national average
Living Wage (1 Adult)
$35,938
per year
Living Wage (Family of 4)
$84,944
per year
Cost Index by Category
Housing83.6
Food86.2
Transportation72.5
Healthcare89.0
Utilities88.5
100 = national average. Higher = more expensive.
Fair Market Rent
Source: HUD1 Bedroom
$1,148
per month
2 Bedroom
$1,368
per month
The overall cost of living index in Emerson is 81.7, which is 18.3% below the national average. Housing costs are below the national average at an index of 83.6. A single adult needs to earn approximately $35,938 per year to cover basic expenses.