2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Ames, IA vs Geneva, IL

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Highlights
Are people in Geneva older or younger than people in Ames?
- The Median Age in Geneva is 17.3 years older than in Ames.

Are housing costs cheaper in Geneva or Ames?
- Geneva housing costs are 76.8% more expensive than Ames housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Geneva or Ames?
- The average commute for residents of Geneva is 14.3 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 Geneva?
Geneva, Illinois is a charming small town located in Kane County on the Fox River just 40 miles west of Chicago. Home to about 22,000 people, this suburb offers visitors an abundance of cultural activities including art galleries, music festivals and historic sites. Additionally, Geneva has many outdoor recreation options that include boating on the Fox River or golfing at one of its numerous courses.

 Ames, IAGeneva, ILUnited States
 Population  Unlock21,472329,725,481
 Median Income$54,339  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock40.738.4
 Avg. Home Price$239,100  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock7.1%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 Geneva    12 Reviews

Real Estate and State Taxes are very high. Lots of people and traffic. Cute little shops and restaurants on main streets which attract a lot of tourists during the  More

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Lived here for 30 years... great schools, quaint downtown, good city leadership, engaged community. Wonderful town to raise a family! Only downsides are weather ( long  More

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Over 8 years ago

We moved to Geneva 4 years ago. The cost of living is very high, and taxes keep going up as well as other living expenses. The population seems to be increasing and the  More

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