Mason City, Iowa vs. Ames, Iowa

Cost of Living Comparison

The cost of living in Ames, Iowa is 29.0% more expensive than Mason City, Iowa.

You would need a salary of $79,980 in Ames, Iowa to maintain the standard of living you have in Mason City, Iowa.
Comparison highlights
• Overall, Ames, Iowa is more expensive than Mason City, Iowa
• Median Home Cost is the biggest factor in the cost of living difference.
Median Home Cost
74% more expensive in Ames
than in Mason City, Iowa
Mason City, IA vs. Ames, IA
Compared to Mason City, Ames is:
  Homeowner
      No Child Care, Taxes not Considered
  29.0% 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
  5.3% higher
  Housing (Homeowner)
  97.8% higher
  Housing (Rent)
  Median Home Cost
  Utilities
  2.6% lower
  Commute
  13.7% higher
  Health
  20.2% higher
  Taxes
  Childcare
  Personal
  1.7% higher