2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Alpena, MI vs West Branch, IA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in West Branch older or younger than people in Alpena?
- The Median Age in West Branch is 7.4 years younger than in Alpena.

Are housing costs cheaper in West Branch or Alpena?
- West Branch housing costs are 78.1% more expensive than Alpena housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, West Branch or Alpena?
- The average commute for residents of West Branch is 13.3 minutes longer than it is for residents of Alpena.

Things to do in Alpena?
Alpena stands out as Michigan's only natural deep water harbor conveniently situated near Lake Huron's Thunder Bay . With over 10000 inhabiting citizens this area provides tremendous recreational variety from boating expeditions to world class scuba diving dives & almost infinite outdoors fishing very popular among vacationers coming from all over United States .

Things to do in West Branch?
Living in West Branch, IA is a pleasant experience for many. The city is located near the beautiful Cedar River, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation such as fishing, camping, and boating. It also has a bustling downtown area with plenty of restaurants and shops to explore. There are several parks in town that provide an ideal place to take a leisurely stroll or have a picnic. There's something for everyone in this small but vibrant Midwestern community. The friendly people who live here make it even more inviting, making it easy to build relationships with neighbors and fellow residents. West Branch truly offers the best of both worlds - the convenience of city living combined with the natural beauty of rural Iowa.

 Alpena, MIWest Branch, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock2,289329,725,481
 Median Income$40,202  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock36.638.4
 Avg. Home Price$142,600  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.1%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time11.92  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Alpena    5 Reviews

One of the ten best places to visit in Michigan. I was born and raised in Michigan but now live in Seattle. I get back to Michigan frequently because my brother  More

   |    Reply

Over 12 years ago

Alpena is 740 ft above sea leval and gets 72 in. of snow every year. That's a good thing and Alpena is a winter wonderland for me . Clean and crisp with the lake frozen  More

   |    Reply

Alpena is a town for all ages, with plenty to do, more than one person could attend. I think the events are varied and offer something for everyone. The town is  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Alpena

Reviews for West Branch    1 Reviews

Located just off of Interstate 80, West Branch is home to several companies, including: US AutoForce, Altorfer, Inc. and Procter and Gamble. The city is currently  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of West Branch


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.