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

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Rochester older or younger than people in Ames?
- The Median Age in Rochester is 12.7 years older than in Ames.

Are housing costs cheaper in Rochester or Ames?
- Rochester housing costs are 22.1% more expensive than Ames housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Rochester or Ames?
- The average commute for residents of Rochester is 0.3 minutes shorter 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 Rochester?
Rochester, Minnesota is a vibrant city located in the heart of the Midwest. Home to the renowned Mayo Clinic and University of Minnesota-Rochester, this city offers plenty to explore. From its variety of shopping options to its multitude of museums and cultural attractions, visitors can experience something unique. Visitors can also take advantage of the area's parks and trails for a breath of fresh air and connect with nature. Whether you're looking for an educational experience or a leisurely weekend getaway, Rochester has something for everyone!

 Ames, IARochester, MNUnited States
 Population  Unlock119,732329,725,481
 Median Income$54,339  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock36.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$239,100  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock3.6%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 Rochester    31 Reviews

Roch (and Minnesota) is a great place IF you live off the govt dole; subsidize undesirable things (through generous welfare benefits, lax law enforcement and sentences,  More

   |    Reply

Rochester is very vanilla. As a progressive, this place is not good. The area leans conservative and you'll see Trump signs everywhere... so that tells you the type of  More

   |    Reply

Over 5 years ago

I moved here over 20 years ago from California and I was in shock for the first couple of years that people actually lived in such a cold climate! Winter starts around  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Rochester


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.