Ames, Iowa vs. Des Moines, Iowa

Cost of Living Comparison

The cost of living in Des Moines, Iowa is 12.8% cheaper than Ames, Iowa.

You would need a salary of $52,292 in Des Moines, Iowa to maintain the standard of living you have in Ames, Iowa.
Comparison highlights
• Overall, Des Moines, Iowa is cheaper than Ames, Iowa
• Median Home Cost is the biggest factor in the cost of living difference.
Median Home Cost
26% cheaper in Des Moines
than in Ames, Iowa
Ames, IA vs. Des Moines, IA
Compared to Ames, Des Moines is:
  Homeowner
      No Child Care, Taxes not Considered
  12.8% lower
      Child Care, Taxes not Considered
      Child Care, Taxes Considered
      No Child Care, Taxes Considered
  Renter
      No Child Care, Taxes not Considered
      Child Care, Taxes not Considered
      Child Care, Taxes Considered
      No Child Care, Taxes Considered
  Food
  1.3% lower
  Housing (Homeowner)
  23.2% lower
  Housing (Rent)
  Median Home Cost
  Utilities
  9.1% lower
  Commute
  11.2% higher
  Health
  15.2% lower
  Taxes
  Childcare
  Personal
  5.1% lower