Ames, Iowa vs. San Rafael, California

Cost of Living Comparison

The cost of living in San Rafael, California is 140.8% more expensive than Ames, Iowa.

You would need a salary of $120,377 in San Rafael, California to maintain the standard of living you have in Ames, Iowa.
Comparison highlights
• Overall, San Rafael, California is more expensive than Ames, Iowa
• Median Home Cost is the biggest factor in the cost of living difference.
Median Home Cost
405% more expensive in San Rafael
than in Ames, Iowa
Ames, IA vs. San Rafael, CA
Compared to Ames, San Rafael is:
  Homeowner
      No Child Care, Taxes not Considered
  140.8% higher
      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
  16.6% higher
  Housing (Homeowner)
  468.5% higher
  Housing (Rent)
  Median Home Cost
  Utilities
  1.3% lower
  Commute
  76.6% higher
  Health
  8.9% lower
  Taxes
  Childcare
  Personal
  32.2% higher