Ames, IA vs Burlington, IA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Burlington is 22.5% cheaper than Ames. With a cost index of 70 vs 85, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Burlington to Ames should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Ames is $1,040/month compared to $931/month in Burlington — a 12% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Burlington is more affordable at $115,800 median vs $263,800.

Median household income in Ames is $60,102 compared to $55,274 in Burlington (+8.7%). Ames does offer higher incomes, but the salary premium barely offsets the higher cost of living, leaving residents with a tighter budget. Looking at affordability, residents of Ames spend roughly 20.8% of their income on rent, more than the 20.2% in Burlington.