2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Ames, IA vs Minnetonka, MN

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Minnetonka older or younger than people in Ames?
- The Median Age in Minnetonka is 19.1 years older than in Ames.

Are housing costs cheaper in Minnetonka or Ames?
- Minnetonka housing costs are 72.6% more expensive than Ames housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Minnetonka or Ames?
- The average commute for residents of Minnetonka is 6.2 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 Minnetonka?
Minnetonka, Minnesota is a charming city located in the western suburbs of Minneapolis. With a population of just over 53,000, Minnetonka offers a mix of small-town charm and big-city amenities. Residents enjoy plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities, from the scenic trails and parks around Lake Minnetonka to the many golf courses in town. The city also boasts several unique shopping destinations, as well as excellent schools, health care options and services. Whether you're looking for a peaceful place to call home or an exciting place to explore, Minnetonka is certainly worth checking out.

 Ames, IAMinnetonka, MNUnited States
 Population  Unlock53,809329,725,481
 Median Income$54,339  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock42.538.4
 Avg. Home Price$239,100  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock3.3%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

   |    Reply

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

   |    Reply

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

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Ames

Reviews for Minnetonka    4 Reviews

Over 14 years ago

Moving from Southern California to Minnetonka, MN the thing we noticed most was the country living envirnoment even though you are living within the city. There are no  More

   |    Reply

Over 16 years ago

Minnetonka, MN was a quiet and nice place to raise a  More

   |    Reply

Over 19 years ago

You can't beat Lake Minnetonka in the  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Minnetonka


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.