Cost of Living in Ames, NY
Cost indexes, living wages, and fair market rents — 2024 Data
Cost of Living Overview
Overall Index
126.3
100 = national avg
+26.3 vs national average
Living Wage (1 Adult)
$55,566
per year
Living Wage (Family of 4)
$131,338
per year
Cost Index by Category
Housing92.5
Food132.6
Transportation165.3
Healthcare126.1
Utilities118.1
100 = national average. Higher = more expensive.
Fair Market Rent
Source: HUD1 Bedroom
$899
per month
2 Bedroom
$1,102
per month
The overall cost of living index in Ames is 126.3, which is 26.3% above the national average. Housing costs are below the national average at an index of 92.5. A single adult needs to earn approximately $55,566 per year to cover basic expenses.