| Index | Bloomington | Indiana | National |
| Cost of living | 102 | 89 | 100 |
| Groceries | 96 | 97 | 100 |
| Health care | 98 | 97 | 100 |
| Housing | 113 | 72 | 100 |
| Transportation | 95 | 96 | 100 |
| Utilities | 97 | 96 | 100 |
| Lifestyle & Entertainment | 96 | 95 | 100 |
| Household Items | 99 | 98 | 100 |
| Education & Childcare | 103 | 94 | 100 |
Understanding the cost of living in Bloomington can help future residents assess whether their current financial situation aligns with the expenses they will encounter. It enables them to plan for potential changes in their budget and lifestyle. The Bloomington cost of living index is 102, which is 2% higher than the national average. The cost of living index is calculated by taking into account multiple categories, which encompass both the cost of everyday expenditures and larger expenses as well.
The cost of living in Bloomington 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. Bloomington 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.
The most insightful perspective on a city comes from its residents. We recently surveyed 13 locals to gauge their perception of the cost of living in Bloomington. The feedback revealed that 23% of respondents found the cost of living to be reasonable, with prices on the decline, while 77% regarded it as notably expensive with prices that continue to rise.
Is Bloomington affordable? This is a pivotal question, especially when mulling over a move, as affordability carries substantial weight in your decision-making process. Factors such as the cost of living index (discussed earlier), housing expenses and income levels all contribute to a location's affordability. For instance, in Bloomington, the median home price is 19% higher than the national average and monthly rent prices are 0.3% lower than the typical rates. Additionally, the median income levels play a role in affordability, with Bloomington boasting a median household income of $60,737, 25.3% lower than the national average.
Utilities: Much like any other costs, utility expenses can exhibit considerable variations, influenced by factors such as climate, available energy sources, geographic location and state regulations. The costs associated with electricity, water, heating, and waste disposal can vary significantly depending on the city or state in question. In Bloomington, the utilities index stands at 3.5% lower than the national average.
Taxes: Locations with elevated tax rates, encompassing both sales and income taxes, can be a factor in driving up the cost of living. When you're paying more in taxes for everyday household expenses, it naturally translates into higher expenses. Similarly, a higher income tax rate can also contribute to an overall higher cost of living. In Bloomington, the standard sales tax rate starts at 7%, and the income tax rates commence at 3.15%.
Transportation: In areas where public transportation is scarce or unavailable, residents often find themselves compelled to own and upkeep vehicles, thereby increasing the overall cost of living. Monthly expenses encompass fuel, insurance, routine maintenance and potentially lease or financing payments. In Bloomington, the transportation index is 4.8% lower than the national average.
The cost of living estimates displayed for Bloomington 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 index | |
| Groceries index | |
| Health care index | |
| Housing index | |
| Transportation index | |
| Utilities index | |
| Lifestyle index | |
| Household index | |
| Educare index |
| Median Income | Per Year | Per Month | Max Budget (28% DTI) | Max Budget (36% DTI) |
| Owners | $123,823 | $10,319 | $2,889 | $3,715 |
| Renters | $37,083 | $3,090 | $865 | $1,113 |
| State | General Sales Tax | With Max Surtax |
| Indiana | 7% | 7% |
| State | Income Tax (Low) | Income Tax (High) |
| Indiana | 3.15% | 3.15% |
| City | Population | Cost of Living Index | National Avg. |
| Stinesville, IN | 334 | 81 | 18.6% |
| Gosport, IN | 1,092 | 84 | 15.8% |
| Spencer, IN | 2,289 | 86 | 14.2% |
| Morgantown, IN | 1,401 | 87 | 13.1% |
| Ellettsville, IN | 6,865 | 92 | 8.2% |
| Bloomington, IN | 87,630 | 102 | 2.0% |
| City | Population | Cost of Living Index | National Avg. |
| Repentigny, QC | 87,645 | n/a | |
| Largo, FL | 87,579 | 99 | 0.9% |
| Duluth, MN | 87,821 | 98 | 2.1% |
| Clifton, NJ | 87,331 | 133 | 33.4% |
| Hemet, CA | 87,279 | 118 | 17.7% |
| Bloomington, IN | 87,630 | 102 | 2.0% |
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