2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Ames, IA vs Lansing, MI

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Highlights
Are people in Lansing older or younger than people in Ames?
- The Median Age in Lansing is 9.4 years older than in Ames.

Are housing costs cheaper in Lansing or Ames?
- Lansing housing costs are 46.8% less expensive than Ames housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Lansing or Ames?
- The average commute for residents of Lansing is 2.9 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 Lansing?
Lansing, Michigan is the capital of the state and home to a diverse array of attractions. Whether you're looking for a fun day out or exploring cultural sites, Lansing has something to offer. From its museums, galleries, and zoos to its unique shopping districts and vibrant cultural offerings, visitors can experience all that Lansing has to offer. With its abundance of outdoor activities, parks, and trails, visitors can take in the breathtaking views this city has to offer!

 Ames, IALansing, MIUnited States
 Population  Unlock113,592329,725,481
 Median Income$54,339  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock32.838.4
 Avg. Home Price$239,100  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock7.4%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 Lansing    28 Reviews

I am in my fifth house in the greater Lansing area since relocating here in 1997 from the tri-city area (Midland/Bay City/Saginaw). Pros: people are friendlier here-  More

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I first moved to Lansing in the early 2000s for grad school @ MSU, went away and returned after several years. I must say, the area has improved VERY significantly  More

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This is a really nice place to live and people here are friendly there is a lot to do and a wide variety of different people and belief systems if you know where to look  More

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