Cost of Living in Waukee, IA
Population 26,974 · Iowa · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Waukee lands reasonably close to national benchmarks on most cost indicators, with a median home value of $328,000 — 8% above the US figure. That makes it a useful reference point for comparing with more extreme markets in Iowa.
Located 14 miles west of Des Moines, Waukee falls within that metro's commuting orbit. Median home values run roughly 79% higher than Des Moines' $184,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Waukee
The median home value in Waukee is $328,200 — 8% above the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $1,290/month, 2% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $106,728/year is 43% higher than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 4.1%, below the national average of 4.8%. Iowa's top state income tax rate is 5.7% and the combined sales tax is 6.9%. Overall, Waukee has a cost of living index of 104 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 4% more expensive.
🏠 Housing
HUD Fair Market Rents by Bedroom
💰 Estimated Monthly Budget
Estimates based on median data and national averages. Actual costs vary.
🛒 Food & Groceries
National BLS average prices (2023). Local prices may vary.
🚗 Transportation
Commute Mode
⚡ Utilities
📋 Taxes
💼 Income & Employment
🎓 Education
👥 Demographics
🏫 Schools
NCES CCD 2019 — public school district data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Waukee, IA?
Waukee has a cost index of 104 (100 = national average). It is 4% above the national average.
What is average rent in Waukee, IA?
The median gross rent in Waukee is $1,290 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Waukee?
The median home value in Waukee is $328,200 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Waukee?
The median household income in Waukee is $106,728 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Waukee, IA?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Waukee is 6.9%. The Iowa state income tax top rate is 5.7%.
Is Waukee, IA affordable?
Waukee is near the national average in terms of cost of living, with an index of 104 (100 = US average).
Waukee at a Glance
- Population
- 26,974
- Median Income
- $106,728
- Home Value
- $328,200
- Median Rent
- $1,290/mo
- Unemployment
- 4.1%
- Sales Tax
- 6.9%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
Iowa Rankings
Similar Cost Cities
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