2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Ames, IA vs Hays, KS

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Highlights
Are people in Hays older or younger than people in Ames?
- The Median Age in Hays is 9.1 years older than in Ames.

Are housing costs cheaper in Hays or Ames?
- Hays housing costs are 6.3% less expensive than Ames housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Hays or Ames?
- The average commute for residents of Hays is 5.0 minutes shorter 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 Hays?
Hays is an incorporated city situated within Ellis County, Kansas boasting plenty of activities like visiting its local museums like the Fort Hays State Historic Site suitable for anyone interested in the area's history plus nearby Sternberg Museum of Natural History has various events and exhibits convenienty 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, IAHays, KSUnited States
 Population  Unlock20,870329,725,481
 Median Income$54,339  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock32.538.4
 Avg. Home Price$239,100  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock2.4%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 Hays    1 Reviews

Over 17 years ago

Pros: 1. Low crime rate 2. Low cost of living and housing 3. Affordable place to live 4. Good school system 5. A good place to live and raise a family Cons: 1.  More

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