2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Ames, IA vs Mesa, AZ

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Highlights
Are people in Mesa older or younger than people in Ames?
- The Median Age in Mesa is 13.2 years older than in Ames.

Are housing costs cheaper in Mesa or Ames?
- Mesa housing costs are 78.1% more expensive than Ames housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Mesa or Ames?
- The average commute for residents of Mesa 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 Mesa?
Mesa, Arizona is a vibrant city filled with activities and attractions for all ages. Visit the Arizona Museum of Natural History or take in a show at the Hohokam Stadium. Head out to Usery Mountain Regional Park and explore some of the most stunning views in Arizona, or stay downtown and experience Mesa's culture and nightlife. Whether you're looking for outdoor recreation, history, culture, or just a relaxing retreat from city life, Mesa is sure to provide it all!

 Ames, IAMesa, AZUnited States
 Population  Unlock497,752329,725,481
 Median Income$54,339  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock36.638.4
 Avg. Home Price$239,100  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.1%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 Mesa    61 Reviews

Mesa is a really good city despite some trouble with Superstition Springs and the failure that is Fiesta Mall, there is nice areas throughout and some areas that need to  More

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Over 2 years ago

As someone who was born in Mesa and has lived here in the 85210 in Dobson Ranch for the last 13 years after moving out from Chandler. I can tell you that most of the  More

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I’m a native to Arizona and growing up here has taught me that people just don’t care, and the Mormon community is huge! It’s normal in the state of AZ for kids to start  More

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