2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Ames, IA vs Apple Valley, MN

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Apple Valley older or younger than people in Ames?
- The Median Age in Apple Valley is 14.1 years older than in Ames.

Are housing costs cheaper in Apple Valley or Ames?
- Apple Valley housing costs are 49.7% more expensive than Ames housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Apple Valley or Ames?
- The average commute for residents of Apple Valley is 8.4 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 Apple Valley?
Apple Valley, Minnesota is a thriving suburb located in the south of the Twin Cities metropolitan area. With a population of nearly 54,000, Apple Valley offers an ideal mix of suburban living with plenty of amenities nearby. Residents can enjoy outdoor recreation throughout the city's many parks and trails, or explore the numerous shopping centers and attractions. The city also boasts excellent schools, health care options and services. Whether you're looking for a place to relax after work or an exciting place to explore on weekends, Apple Valley is certainly worth checking out.

 Ames, IAApple Valley, MNUnited States
 Population  Unlock55,237329,725,481
 Median Income$54,339  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock37.538.4
 Avg. Home Price$239,100  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock3.6%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

   |    Reply

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

   |    Reply

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

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Ames

Reviews for Apple Valley    5 Reviews

Over 15 years ago

Being ex military, I have traveled to a lot of States. If I had my way, Id live in San Diego, but I can't afford it. My second choice would be Mn. There are lots of  More

   |    Reply

Over 16 years ago

Apple Valley is a somewhat boring place to live. Most of the houses look the same. They are painted the same to conform to rules. Mostly chain stores but I prefer  More

   |    Reply

Over 17 years ago

Quiet w lots of parks and low  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Apple Valley


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.