Ames, Iowa vs. West Des Moines, Iowa

Cost of Living Comparison

The cost of living in West Des Moines, Iowa is 1.6% cheaper than Ames, Iowa.

You would need a salary of $49,225 in West Des Moines, Iowa to maintain the standard of living you have in Ames, Iowa.
Comparison highlights
• Overall, West Des Moines, Iowa is cheaper than Ames, Iowa
• Health is the biggest factor in the cost of living difference.
Health
15% cheaper in West Des Moines
than in Ames, Iowa
Ames, IA vs. West Des Moines, IA
Compared to Ames, West Des Moines is:
  Homeowner
      No Child Care, Taxes not Considered
  1.6% 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
  2.5% higher
  Housing (Homeowner)
  26.9% higher
  Housing (Rent)
  Median Home Cost
  Utilities
  9.4% lower
  Commute
  6.1% higher
  Health
  15.2% lower
  Taxes
  Childcare
  Personal
  4.2% lower