DES MOINES, Iowa (KCRG) - Inflation is placing a strain on Midwest families, according to a new report from Common Sense Institute (CSI).

Using the most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), CSI found that the total extra spending needed to maintain the same standard of living from January 2020 to July 2025 is $42,700.

In addition, CSI estimates that the standard Iowa family spent $1,247 more in July 2025 than in January 2020 to maintain the same living standards.

According to the report, monthly costs for housing, transportation, and food have also increased since 2020.

Since 2020, housing costs have increased over $466 a month, transportation costs have increased over $296 a month, and food costs have increased over $175 a month.

From July 2024 to July 2025, fu

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