Cost of Living in Ames, Iowa

5%
lower than national avg.
18%
Housing
5%
Utilities
7%
Groceries
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Ames, Iowa's cost of living is 5% lower than the national average. The cost of living in any area can vary based on factors such as your career, its average salary and the real estate market of that area. PayScale's Cost of Living Calculator can help you find out more about how your individual needs will factor in when beginning your research to figure out how much it would cost you to relocate.

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Cost of Living in Ames, Iowa by Expense Category

Housing, Utilities & Transportation
Ames's housing expenses are 18% lower than the national average and the utility prices are 5% lower than the national average. Transportation expenses like bus fares and gas prices are 4% lower than the national average.
Median Home Price
$368,396
Median Rent
$1,120 / month
Energy Bill
$168.16 / month
Phone Bill
$180.90 / month
Gas
$3.27 / gallon
Food & Grocery
Ames has grocery prices that are 7% higher than the national average.
Loaf of Bread
$4.14
Gallon of Milk
$2.59
Carton of Eggs
$2.40
Bunch of Bananas
$3.58
Hamburger
$5.47
Healthcare
Healthcare in Ames is 6% higher than the national average.
Doctor's Visit
$132.78
Dentist Visit
$114.56
Optometrist Visit
$125.07
Rx Drug
$489.22
Veterinary Visit
$59.02