Cost of Living Comparison 2026
📍 Iowa City, IA — ZIP-level rent data · COL adjusted from Des Moines, IA area
Numbers update automatically as you type
You'd spend $1.8K/month more in Denver, CO
$150.0K in your current city equals $171.5K in Denver, CO
Based on monthly living costs (rent, groceries, utilities, transport, healthcare). Home purchase prices shown separately below.
Iowa City, IA
Denver, CO
Iowa City, IA
The Hawkeye State
Located in Iowa, this city has a population of 76K residents.
Denver, CO
The Centennial State
Notable Facts
- •Mile-high city (5,280 ft)
- •Outdoor recreation hub
- •Major cannabis market
Major Industries
Cost Breakdown by Category
Annual spending: Iowa City, IA vs Denver, CO
| Category | Iowa City, IA | Denver, CO | Difference | Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
🏠Housing | $1,846/mo | $3,248/mo | ↑ $1,403more | 76.0% |
🚗Transportation | $1,226/mo | $1,462/mo | ↑ $235more | 19.2% |
📦Other | $1,585/mo | $1,774/mo | ↑ $189more | 11.9% |
🛒Groceries | $903/mo | $1,029/mo | ↑ $126more | 14.0% |
⚡All Utilities | $467/mo | $519/mo | ↑ $52.38more | 11.2% |
🏥Healthcare | $677/mo | $632/mo | ↓ $44.92less | 6.6% |
🏛️ Local Income Taxes
Iowa City, 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: $980–$1,090/mo
1BR range: $1,620–$2,540/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 Denver are 82% more expensive than Iowa City
Source: Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI), January 2026
Tax Comparison
Annual tax burden comparison at $150.0K salary
Iowa City, IA
Denver, CO
Additional Tax Information
Iowa City, IA Tax Rates
Denver, CO 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 Colorado on TaxTakeHome.com
Where your money goes further
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