Ames, IA vs Des Moines, IA: Cost of Living Comparison
Des Moines has the lower overall cost of living. (100 = US national average)
Category-by-Category Comparison
| Category | Ames | Des Moines | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living | 85 | 75 | Des Moines |
| Housing | 76 ($728) | 53 ($738) | Des Moines |
| Transportation | 106 ($3.50) | 104 ($3.50) | Des Moines |
| Food & groceries | 80 ($328) | 86 ($353) | Ames |
| Utilities | 88 ($137) | 77 ($95) | Des Moines |
| Healthcare | 88 ($99) | 77 ($69) | Des Moines |
| Median annual wage | 100 ($48,540) | 100 ($48,540) | Tie |
Index 100 = US national average. Lower = cheaper. For wage, higher = better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ames, IA or Des Moines, IA cheaper to live in?
Des Moines, IA is cheaper overall by about 10 index points (Ames, IA: 85, Des Moines, IA: 75; 100 = US national average).
What salary do I need in Ames, IA vs Des Moines, IA?
A single adult needs roughly $29,750/year in Ames, IA and $26,250/year in Des Moines, IA to cover basic living costs.