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2024 Compare Cities Overview:
Columbia, SC vs Ames, IA

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Highlights
Are people in Ames older or younger than people in Columbia?
- The Median Age in Ames is 4.8 years younger than in Columbia.

Are housing costs cheaper in Ames or Columbia?
- Ames housing costs are 17.1% more expensive than Columbia housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Ames or Columbia?
- The average commute for residents of Ames is 1.3 minutes longer than it is for residents of Columbia.

Things to do in Columbia?
Columbia, South Carolina is the state's vibrant capital city. Nestled in the Midlands area of the state, it offers plenty of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. From its popular Riverbanks Zoo and Garden to its nearby lakes and rivers, there are plenty of outdoor activities available to explore. Inside the city limits, you can find museums, a bustling downtown area with restaurants and shops, great schools and universities, and more. With its colorful history and unique culture, Columbia is sure to offer something for everyone.

Things to do in Ames?
Ames, Iowa is a lively city located in the heart of central Iowa. This bustling city offers plenty for visitors to explore such as the picturesque Reiman Gardens or the historic Octagon Center for the Arts. Residents here also enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities at Hills Memorial Park or Brookside Park. With its excellent school systems, thriving businesses, and numerous recreational opportunities, it's no wonder why so many people choose to make Ames their home.

 Columbia, SCAmes, IAUnited States
 Population137,27665,522329,725,481
 Median Income$48,791$54,339$69,021
 Median Age28.223.438.4
 Avg. Home Price$204,100$239,100$338,100
 Unemployment Rate5.2%2.7%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time15.1816.4426.38

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Reviews for Columbia    50 Reviews

Over 1 years ago

I love living in Columbia! I recently graduated from USC and plan to stay. I read the reviews posted here and it shows that like many cities, your experience will depend  More

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Loved living in Columbia, SC prior to my job transfer. It's the perfect size - plenty to do, but still a laid back place. People are extremely friendly, there are  More

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I moved to Columbia for graduate school and although it is a giant step up from my small, out-of-state hometown, I became bored and restless here in less than a year.  More

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Reviews for Ames    12 Reviews

Over 12 years ago

Hello, I am in San Jose Ca, but am seriously thinking of moving somewhere much slower for a better quality of living. I've just turned 59, so I'm kinda preparing for  More

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Over 12 years ago

Like every other city Ames has both good and bad points. The good points are: low cost of living, very friendly people, lots of outdoor activities and quite a few events  More

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Ames enjoys a high quality of life at a very affordable cost, substantially lower than many other communities. The presence of Iowa State University, a large (28,000  More

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ZIPS IN COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA
29229, 29203, 29209, 29045, 29205, 29201, 29204, 29207, 29225, 29208, 10 total
ZIPS IN AMES, IOWA
50010 50014 50012

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