2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Ames, IA vs Raleigh, NC

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Highlights
Are people in Raleigh older or younger than people in Ames?
- The Median Age in Raleigh is 10.8 years older than in Ames.

Are housing costs cheaper in Raleigh or Ames?
- Raleigh housing costs are 78.6% more expensive than Ames housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Raleigh or Ames?
- The average commute for residents of Raleigh is 7.0 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 Raleigh?
Raleigh, North Carolina is the state's capital and a great place to live and visit. Boasting attractions like the North Carolina Museum of Art and Pullen Park, Raleigh offers something for everyone. History buffs can take tours of historic sites like the Historic Oakwood District or visit North Carolina State University's campus and surrounding areas. Outdoor lovers can also explore 40 miles of trails along the Neuse River, head out on kayak trips, and take part in a range of recreational activities at nearby lakes, rivers and parks. Along with its vibrant culture and art scene, Raleigh is an ideal destination for anyone looking for a memorable experience.

 Ames, IARaleigh, NCUnited States
 Population  Unlock462,219329,725,481
 Median Income$54,339  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock34.238.4
 Avg. Home Price$239,100  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.3%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

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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 Raleigh    224 Reviews

I moved to Raleigh in 2018. Before that, I lived in Orange County CA, Boulder CO, South Africa, Northern California, Arizona, and Toronto. I say all this to give  More

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Excellent for a great many people or categories of people. As far as prices: ratio of wage and job opportunity here with housing remains one of the better ones in the  More

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Over 2 years ago

I attended university here in the early 90s and came back around 2005 and never left. I'm surprised at the other negative reviews honestly. Yes, housing is pricey in  More

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