Cost of Living in Ames, IA
Cost indexes, living wages, and fair market rents — 2024 Data
Cost of Living Overview
Overall Index
104.8
100 = national avg
+4.8 vs national average
Living Wage (1 Adult)
$46,118
per year
Living Wage (Family of 4)
$109,005
per year
Cost Index by Category
Housing129.6
Food95.9
Transportation75.1
Healthcare96.8
Utilities103.5
100 = national average. Higher = more expensive.
Fair Market Rent
Source: HUD1 Bedroom
$1,026
per month
2 Bedroom
$1,153
per month
The overall cost of living index in Ames is 104.8, which is 4.8% above the national average. Housing costs are above the national average at an index of 129.6. A single adult needs to earn approximately $46,118 per year to cover basic expenses.