Cost of Living in Ames, IA

How far does a $70,000 salary go in Ames? Estimated income taxes on that gross salary total approximately $10,932 per year — combining federal taxes with Iowa's state income tax. Subtract rent for a 2-bedroom apartment ($1,153/month based on HUD Fair Market Rents for the Ames metro area) and the estimated annual take-home is $45,232, or roughly $3,769 per month for everything else: food, transportation, savings, and discretionary spending.

The Ames metro has a cost of living index of 79.8 according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (national average = 100). At 20% below the national average, Ames is a genuinely affordable metro where everyday expenses stretch further than in most cities.

At a $70,000 salary, the estimated 2-bedroom rent in Ames represents approximately 20% of gross income. That falls comfortably below the 30% rent-burden guideline, a healthy position for building savings.