Ames, IA vs Iowa City, IA

Ames, IA and Iowa City, IA have a very similar cost of living, with only a 3% difference in their overall index. Ames scores 85 while Iowa City scores 88 on the cost of living index, where 100 represents the national average. The day-to-day expenses for residents in both cities are comparable, though differences emerge when looking at specific categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Ames is $1,040/month compared to $1,094/month in Iowa City — a 5% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Ames is more affordable at $263,800 median vs $273,600.

Median household income in Ames is $60,102 compared to $57,533 in Iowa City (+4.5%). Ames offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Ames spend roughly 20.8% of their income on rent, less than the 22.8% in Iowa City.