Ames, IA vs Merced, CA
Cost of Living Comparison
Ames, IA is more affordable by 9.4 index points
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Category | Ames, IA | Merced, CA | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall | 88.8 | 98.3 | -9.4 |
| Housing | 69.2 | 78.6 | -9.5 |
| Goods | 93.7 | 105.2 | -11.4 |
| Utilities | 83.0 | 158.3 | -75.3 |
| Other Services | 92.9 | 100.3 | -7.3 |
Income & Housing Comparison
| Metric | Ames, IA | Merced, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Household Income | $68,107 | $64,772 |
| Median Home Value | $216,000 | $342,300 |
| Median Monthly Rent | $981 | $1,200 |
| Per Capita Income | $36,295 | $26,869 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ames, IA or Merced, CA cheaper to live in?
Ames, IA is more affordable. The cost of living difference is 9.4 index points (Ames, IA: 88.8, Merced, CA: 98.3).
Where is housing cheaper, Ames, IA or Merced, CA?
Housing is more affordable in Ames, IA. Housing index: Ames, IA (69.2) vs Merced, CA (78.6).