2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Ames, IA vs Plano, TX

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Highlights
Are people in Plano older or younger than people in Ames?
- The Median Age in Plano is 15.4 years older than in Ames.

Are housing costs cheaper in Plano or Ames?
- Plano housing costs are 106.1% more expensive than Ames housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Plano or Ames?
- The average commute for residents of Plano is 10.1 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 Plano?
Plano, Texas is a vibrant city that offers something for everyone. Shopaholics can explore The Shops at Legacy, an outdoor shopping and entertainment district with plenty of food, fun and local stores. Art enthusiasts can check out the IKEA Performing Arts Center or enjoy a day at the Interurban Railway Museum. Nature lovers can explore nearby parks like Oak Point Park and Nature Preserve or take in views of stunning lakes and rivers. With its great attractions, beautiful scenery and endless opportunities for adventure, there's no telling what you'll find in Plano!

 Ames, IAPlano, TXUnited States
 Population  Unlock282,181329,725,481
 Median Income$54,339  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock38.838.4
 Avg. Home Price$239,100  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.5%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 Plano    42 Reviews

I had lived in Plano for over 30 years. It is where I bought my first home as a single woman, where I married, and where I raised my children. I was fortunate enough  More

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We have lived in Plano for 20 years. It has been consistently rated very highly in surveys of best places to live in the US. Pros are the parks system; which includes  More

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Over 4 years ago

I've lived here for a while now. It's wonderful here. There's a ton to do, great jobs, great parks, and pretty good school. It's the perfect  More

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