Ames, IA vs Lincoln, NE: Cost of Living Comparison
Lincoln has the lower overall cost of living. (100 = US national average)
Category-by-Category Comparison
| Category | Ames | Lincoln | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living | 85 | 84 | Lincoln |
| Housing | 76 ($728) | 71 ($732) | Lincoln |
| Transportation | 106 ($3.50) | 99 ($3.50) | Lincoln |
| Food & groceries | 80 ($328) | 94 ($385) | Ames |
| Utilities | 88 ($137) | 86 ($128) | Lincoln |
| Healthcare | 88 ($99) | 86 ($92) | Lincoln |
| Median annual wage | 100 ($48,540) | 101 ($48,980) | Ames |
Index 100 = US national average. Lower = cheaper. For wage, higher = better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ames, IA or Lincoln, NE cheaper to live in?
Lincoln, NE is cheaper overall by about 1 index points (Ames, IA: 85, Lincoln, NE: 84; 100 = US national average).
What salary do I need in Ames, IA vs Lincoln, NE?
A single adult needs roughly $29,750/year in Ames, IA and $29,400/year in Lincoln, NE to cover basic living costs.