Waterloo, Iowa vs. Ames, Iowa

Cost of Living Comparison

The cost of living in Ames, Iowa is 25.4% more expensive than Waterloo, Iowa.

You would need a salary of $50,167 in Ames, Iowa to maintain the standard of living you have in Waterloo, Iowa.
Comparison highlights
• Overall, Ames, Iowa is more expensive than Waterloo, Iowa
• Median Home Cost is the biggest factor in the cost of living difference.
Median Home Cost
97% more expensive in Ames
than in Waterloo, Iowa
Waterloo, IA vs. Ames, IA
Compared to Waterloo, Ames is:
  Homeowner
      No Child Care, Taxes not Considered
  25.4% 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
  4.7% higher
  Housing (Homeowner)
  94.8% higher
  Housing (Rent)
  Median Home Cost
  Utilities
  8.8% higher
  Commute
  4.5% higher
  Health
  15.3% higher
  Taxes
  Childcare
  Personal
  0.8% lower