2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Ames, IA vs Portland, OR

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Portland older or younger than people in Ames?
- The Median Age in Portland is 14.5 years older than in Ames.

Are housing costs cheaper in Portland or Ames?
- Portland housing costs are 124.7% more expensive than Ames housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Portland or Ames?
- The average commute for residents of Portland is 9.7 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 Portland?
Portland, Oregon is a vibrant city full of culture and fun activities. Spend the day exploring downtown or visit some of the city's many parks, trails and gardens such as Washington Park and Tom McCall Waterfront Park. Enjoy top restaurants, breweries, shopping and nightlife activities around Alberta Street or take in the majestic views from Mount Tabor. For those looking for more adventure and exploration, head out to the Columbia River Gorge or the Cascade Mountains. From its unique attractions to its natural beauty, Portland is sure to keep you busy!

 Ames, IAPortland, ORUnited States
 Population  Unlock647,176329,725,481
 Median Income$54,339  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock37.938.4
 Avg. Home Price$239,100  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.9%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 Portland    386 Reviews

I lived in Portland for 19 years (I've also lived in Boise, ID, the Bay Area, Austin, TX and now Nampa, ID). It drives me nuts when people try to give a large city a  More

   |    Reply

One of the best cities in America. Food scene is the best in the world. Weather is preferable over places where you have the same weather year round. I enjoy the  More

   |    Reply

I moved from Houston to Portland about a year ago. I remember reading the reviews on here and it making me second guess moving before I did, so I wanted to come back and  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Portland


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.