Cost of Living Comparison 2026
📍 Ames, IA — ZIP-level rent data · COL adjusted from Des Moines, IA area
Numbers update automatically as you type
You'd save $79.17/month moving to Indianapolis, IN
$150.0K in your current city equals $149.0K in Indianapolis, IN
Based on monthly living costs (rent, groceries, utilities, transport, healthcare). Home purchase prices shown separately below.
Ames, IA
Indianapolis, IN
Ames, IA
The Hawkeye State
Located in Iowa, this city has a population of 66K residents.
Indianapolis, IN
The Hoosier State
Located in Indiana, this city has a population of 888K residents.
Cost Breakdown by Category
Annual spending: Ames, IA vs Indianapolis, IN
| Category | Ames, IA | Indianapolis, IN | Difference | Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
🏠Housing | $1,828/mo | $1,949/mo | ↑ $121more | 6.6% |
🏥Healthcare | $674/mo | $582/mo | ↓ $91.24less | 13.5% |
⚡All Utilities | $464/mo | $503/mo | ↑ $38.23more | 8.2% |
🚗Transportation | $1,214/mo | $1,188/mo | ↓ $26.02less | 2.1% |
🛒Groceries | $899/mo | $919/mo | ↑ $20.52more | 2.3% |
📦Other | $1,570/mo | $1,590/mo | ↑ $20.26more | 1.3% |
🏛️ Local Income Taxes
Ames, IA has no local income tax.
Local taxes are in addition to state income tax. Not all cities levy local income taxes.
🏠Rent Comparison
1BR range: $1,020–$1,160/mo
1BR range: $1,080–$1,870/mo
💡 Note: Rent prices are based on HUD Fair Market Rent data and represent median costs. Actual prices vary by neighborhood, amenities, and condition. Source: HUD Small Area Fair Market Rents FY2026.
Home Values
Homes in Indianapolis are 33% less expensive than Ames
Source: Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI), January 2026
Tax Comparison
Annual tax burden comparison at $150.0K salary
Ames, IA
Indianapolis, IN
Additional Tax Information
Ames, IA Tax Rates
Indianapolis, IN Tax Rates
💡 Note: Tax calculations are estimates based on 2024/2025 tax brackets for single filers with standard deduction. Actual taxes may vary based on filing status, deductions, credits, and local variations.
Environment
💰 See how taxes change too — compare take-home pay between Iowa and Indiana on TaxTakeHome.com
Where your money goes further
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Similar cost to Indianapolis, IN
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