2024 Compare Cities Overview:
Ames, IA vs Crystal Lake, IL

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Highlights
Are people in Crystal Lake older or younger than people in Ames?
- The Median Age in Crystal Lake is 16.1 years older than in Ames.

Are housing costs cheaper in Crystal Lake or Ames?
- Crystal Lake housing costs are 24.0% more expensive than Ames housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Crystal Lake or Ames?
- The average commute for residents of Crystal Lake is 15.4 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 Crystal Lake?
Crystal Lake, Illinois is found in McHenry county giving its citizens access to top rated schools such as Crystal Lake South High School while also having shopping options at Crystal Point Mall and multiple restaurants including Wildfire Barbeque Co.

 Ames, IACrystal Lake, ILUnited States
 Population65,52240,082329,725,481
 Median Income$54,339$96,274$69,021
 Median Age23.439.538.4
 Avg. Home Price$239,100$296,600$338,100
 Unemployment Rate2.7%4.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time16.4431.8826.38
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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Reviews for Crystal Lake    7 Reviews

Over 10 years ago

Great area for recreational boating, fishing and biking. Great place to involve your kids as there are lots of opportunities' for football, baseball and dance. For  More

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Over 11 years ago

I have been living here for 12 years. It's a nice community with friendly people, but I hate the weather. It feels like winter is 6 months long with many overcast days,  More

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Over 11 years ago

A nice place to raise a family, but not a lot of diversity. We are looking to move from here and searching in the Colorado  More

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