Cost of Living in Altoona, IA
Cost indexes, living wages, and fair market rents — 2024 Data
Cost of Living Overview
Overall Index
126.4
100 = national avg
+26.4 vs national average
Living Wage (1 Adult)
$55,602
per year
Living Wage (Family of 4)
$131,422
per year
Cost Index by Category
Housing141.3
Food116.6
Transportation108.7
Healthcare113.3
Utilities118.2
100 = national average. Higher = more expensive.
Fair Market Rent
Source: HUD1 Bedroom
$1,109
per month
2 Bedroom
$1,318
per month
The overall cost of living index in Altoona is 126.4, which is 26.4% above the national average. Housing costs are above the national average at an index of 141.3. A single adult needs to earn approximately $55,602 per year to cover basic expenses.