Cost of Living in Iowa City, IA
Cost indexes, living wages, and fair market rents — 2024 Data
Cost of Living Overview
Overall Index
107.8
100 = national avg
+7.8 vs national average
Living Wage (1 Adult)
$47,436
per year
Living Wage (Family of 4)
$112,122
per year
Cost Index by Category
Housing139.6
Food94.0
Transportation78.2
Healthcare95.2
Utilities104.3
100 = national average. Higher = more expensive.
Fair Market Rent
Source: HUD1 Bedroom
$961
per month
2 Bedroom
$1,141
per month
The overall cost of living index in Iowa City is 107.8, which is 7.8% above the national average. Housing costs are above the national average at an index of 139.6. A single adult needs to earn approximately $47,436 per year to cover basic expenses.