2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Ames, IA vs Albert Lea, MN

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Highlights
Are people in Albert Lea older or younger than people in Ames?
- The Median Age in Albert Lea is 20.2 years older than in Ames.

Are housing costs cheaper in Albert Lea or Ames?
- Albert Lea housing costs are 44.8% less expensive than Ames housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Albert Lea or Ames?
- The average commute for residents of Albert Lea is 1.0 minutes longer than it is for residents of Ames.

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.

Things to do in Albert Lea?
Albert Lea is an incorporated town situated within Freeborn County, Minnesota boasting plenty of activities like visiting its local museums like the Freeborn County Historical Museum suitable for anyone interested in the area's history plus nearby Myre-Big Island State Park has various events and exhibits conveniently situated close by. There are also several shopping outlets and eateries providing unique items or delicious cuisine good for anyone looking to browse around or have a meal out during their visit here!

 Ames, IAAlbert Lea, MNUnited States
 Population  Unlock18,433329,725,481
 Median Income$54,339  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock43.638.4
 Avg. Home Price$239,100  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.5%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time16.44  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Ames    12 Reviews

Over 13 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 13 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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Reviews for Albert Lea    1 Reviews

Over 19 years ago

After living in the Twin Cities and California, Albert Lea seems dirt cheap. Housing is some of the lowest in the  More

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