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2024 Compare Cities Overview:
Rapid City, SD vs Ames, IA

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Highlights
Are people in Ames older or younger than people in Rapid City?
- The Median Age in Ames is 14.7 years younger than in Rapid City.

Are housing costs cheaper in Ames or Rapid City?
- Ames housing costs are 18.3% less expensive than Rapid City housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Ames or Rapid City?
- The average commute for residents of Ames is 0.8 minutes longer than it is for residents of Rapid City.

Things to do in Rapid City?
Rapid City, South Dakota is a vibrant city located in the southwestern corner of the United States. Home to attractions such as Bear Country USA and Reptile Gardens, visitors can explore outdoor activities and historical sites when visiting Rapid City. There are also plenty of museums, galleries, and performance venues such as The Journey Museum & Learning Center and Art Alley. For entertainment, visitors can explore boutique shops and restaurants along with movie theaters and live music clubs. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an exciting night out, Rapid City has 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.

 Rapid City, SDAmes, IAUnited States
 Population73,94265,522329,725,481
 Median Income$58,072$54,339$69,021
 Median Age38.123.438.4
 Avg. Home Price$292,500$239,100$338,100
 Unemployment Rate3.1%2.7%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time15.6816.4426.38

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Reviews for Rapid City    31 Reviews

I have lived in this city for the last three and half years and I can't stand it!! Let me spell it out for you, but to be fair, let me give you the Pros first:  More

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Unless you made your pension out of state or already bought a home you can't afford to liver there. Rapid City is gray in winter.  More

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Over 3 years ago

I've lived in the city 5 years a loved  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 RAPID CITY, SOUTH DAKOTA
57701 57702
ZIPS IN AMES, IOWA
50010 50014 50012

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