A
3%
Overall NAT. AVG.
3%
Groceries NAT. AVG.
20%
Housing NAT. AVG.
Date & Last Updated: These cost of living estimates reflect 2026 modeled data using U.S. Census housing inputs and AI-assisted city-level pricing models.
The cost of living index is based on a national average of 100. For example, if the cost of living score is 90, then the estimated cost of living is 10% lower than the national average. If the score is 110, then the estimated cost of living is 10% higher than average. The overall index is calculated using weighted estimates across major everyday expense categories, including housing (30%), groceries (16%), transportation (12%), healthcare (10%), utilities (8%), lifestyle and entertainment (8%), household expenses (8%), and education and childcare (8%). All values are AI-assisted city-level estimates designed for directional comparisons.
Index Bettendorf Iowa National
Cost of living10389100
Groceries9797100
Health care9796100
Housing12074100
Transportation9797100
Utilities9395100
Lifestyle & Entertainment9695100
Household Items9697100
Education & Childcare9794100
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An Overview of Cost of Living in Bettendorf, IA

Are you thinking about relocating, but curious about the potential cost of living in Bettendorf? Is it more expensive or more affordable than average? Based on the most recent report, the cost of living in Bettendorf stands at 103, making it 3% higher than the national average. The cost of living directly affects the affordability of one's desired lifestyle. Knowing the cost of housing, transportation, groceries and other essentials in the new area allows people to gauge whether they can maintain their preferred standard of living.

The cost of living in Bettendorf aligns closely with the national average when compared to other cities across the nation. Everyday essentials such as groceries, household expenses, health care and utility bills are priced at a level consistent with the average in similar urban areas. Bettendorf residents can anticipate that their daily expenses won't be significantly higher than those in an average city, ensuring that the cost of living remains manageable.

Is Bettendorf Affordable?

Is Bettendorf an affordable place to live? It's a good question and one that you might want to ask when considering any new city, as affordability can play a huge role in the decision making process. The cost of living index (which we covered above), as well as housing costs and income levels play a vital role in determining the affordability of an area. The median home price in Bettendorf is 29.3% higher than the national average, while the average monthly rent prices are 3.5% lower than average. The affordability of any location can also be influenced by median income levels. Bettendorf has a median household income of $129,809, which is 59.6% higher than the national average.

What Factors can Influence the Cost of Living in Bettendorf?

Urbanization: Urban areas with extensive amenities and job opportunities tend to have a higher cost of living due to increased demand for services and relocation, resulting in higher home prices and higher rents. Less densely populated rural areas, or areas with less demand tend to have fewer amenities and slower job growth, which results in a lower cost of living.

Healthcare: Healthcare costs and insurance premiums can fluctuate greatly based on the city or state. Access to healthcare facilities, out-of-pocket expenses for doctor\’s visits, dentist costs, medication costs and specialized care costs can all impact the cost of living. In Bettendorf, the healthcare costs are 2.9% lower than the national average.

Subsidies: Certain regions may provide government subsidies or assistance initiatives designed to alleviate the cost of living burden on their residents. These programs encompass a wide range of support mechanisms, such as Medicare, Medicaid, housing subsidies, low-income home energy assistance programs, school lunch programs, supplemental nutrition assistance programs, student loans, electric vehicle tax credits, affordable care act subsidies and farming subsidies. Areas with fewer subsidy offerings might experience an elevation in their cost of living.

Where is the Data From?

The cost of living estimates displayed for Bettendorf are modeled using a U.S. average baseline of 100, helping provide a useful comparison of local living expenses. Housing calculations include U.S. Census home price and rental data, while all other values are AI-assisted estimates based on regional cost patterns, climate, transportation, and everyday spending expectations. These values are intended for directional comparisons across cities.

Cost Of Living Quick Facts

  • The cost of living in Bettendorf is 16% higher than the Iowa average
  • The cost of living in Bettendorf is 3% higher than the national average
  • Bettendorf housing is 20% higher than the national average
  • Iowa general sales tax is 18% higher than the national average
  • Iowa state income tax is 69% higher than the national average

Most Affordable Places to Live in and Around Bettendorf

See all the best places to live around Bettendorf

Compare Bettendorf, IA Cost of Living

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      Median Income & Debt-To-Income Ratio

      Median Income Per Year Per Month Max Budget (28% DTI) Max Budget (36% DTI)
      Owners$150,251$12,521$3,506$4,508
      Renters$66,415$5,535$1,550$1,993
      The percent of monthly income spent on housing can be a good indicator of the affordability of housing in Bettendorf, IA, as well as the overall cost of living. As a general rule of thumb, the debt-to-income ratio (DTI) for homeowners or renters should be not more than 28 percent of gross income to be spent on housing related costs and not more than 36 percent of income on all expenses, including debts. The median income for Bettendorf homeowners, is $150,251. This would allow for a maximum of $3,506 per month to be spent on housing costs. For renters, the median monthly income is $66,415 which would result in a maximum of $1,550 to be spent on rental costs.

      Iowa Sales Tax

      State General Sales Tax With Max Surtax
      Iowa 6% 7%

      Iowa Income Tax

      State Income Tax (Low) Income Tax (High)
      Iowa 4.4% 6%

      Nearby cities with low cost of living

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Rock Island Arsenal, IL3661000.2%
      Oak Grove, IL4457821.6%
      Panorama Park, IA2178614.2%
      Carbon Cliff, IL1,9988911.0%
      Rock Island, IL38,6408910.9%
      Bettendorf, IA37,4771033.2%

      Cities with similar population

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      West Fargo, ND37,4591076.6%
      Kearns, UT37,4581099.5%
      Portage, IN37,504945.6%
      Owasso, OK37,448982.0%
      Prattville, AL37,437972.7%
      Bettendorf, IA37,4771033.2%
      Date & Last Updated: These cost of living estimates reflect 2026 modeled data using U.S. Census housing inputs and AI-assisted city-level pricing models.