Cost of Living Calculator - Ames, Iowa vs San Marcos, California


The cost of living in San Marcos, California is 72.1% more expensive than Ames, Iowa.

You would need a salary of $146,279 in San Marcos, California to maintain the standard of living you have in Ames, Iowa.
Comparison highlights
• Overall, San Marcos, California is more expensive than Ames, Iowa
• Median Home Cost is the biggest factor in the cost of living difference.
Median Home Cost
240% more expensive in San Marcos
than in Ames, Iowa
Ames, IA vs San Marcos, CA
Compared to Ames, San Marcos is:
  Homeowner
      No Child Care, Taxes not Considered
  72.1% 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
  12.4% higher
  Housing (Homeowner)
  226.1% higher
  Housing (Rent)
  Median Home Cost
  Utilities
  5.5% higher
  Commute
  82.9% higher
  Health
  26.3% lower
  Taxes
  Childcare
  Personal
  11.2% higher

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