Cost of Living in Ames, IA
Population: 66,112 • 2026 Data
$60,102
Median Household Income
-22% vs national
$1,040
Median Monthly Rent
-23% vs national
$263,800
Median Home Value
-22% vs national
6.4%
Unemployment Rate
Housing in Ames
The median home value in Ames, IA is $263,800. Monthly rent for a typical unit averages $1,040, while total monthly housing costs (including utilities and insurance) average $1,082.
Rent-to-income ratio: 20.8%. This is within the recommended 30% threshold, suggesting housing is relatively affordable for median-income earners.
Income and Employment
The median household income in Ames, IA is $60,102. The unemployment rate stands at 6.4%, with a labor force of 38,289 people.
Data Sources
All data from the US Census Bureau American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates. National median figures used for comparison context.