2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Ames, IA vs Tacoma, WA

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Highlights
Are people in Tacoma older or younger than people in Ames?
- The Median Age in Tacoma is 13.3 years older than in Ames.

Are housing costs cheaper in Tacoma or Ames?
- Tacoma housing costs are 89.9% more expensive than Ames housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Tacoma or Ames?
- The average commute for residents of Tacoma is 11.6 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 Tacoma?
Tacoma, Washington is a vibrant city full of opportunities for exploration and recreation. Nature lovers can take advantage of the stunning views from Mount Rainier National Park or explore giant trees at Point Defiance Park. History buffs can visit the Museum of Glass to learn about the area's unique glass culture or explore the local history at Fort Nisqually Living History Museum. Art enthusiasts can join a painting class at Spaceworks Gallery or attend an art exhibit at Tacoma Art Museum. Foodies will love browsing through dozens of eateries and breweries in the city while shoppers can find some great deals at Tacoma Mall. With its wide variety of attractions, Tacoma is sure to have something for everyone!

 Ames, IATacoma, WAUnited States
 Population  Unlock217,332329,725,481
 Median Income$54,339  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock36.738.4
 Avg. Home Price$239,100  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock7.3%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 Tacoma    40 Reviews

I've lived in Tacoma for 3.5 years and love it! It's not a perfect city, nowhere is perfect and Tacoma does have its' share of problems, but overall have found T-Town  More

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Over 4 years ago

We LOVE tacoma. Grew up in Seattle, and tacoma is so much better! Easy access to the water, hiking, and Mt Rainier and the Olympics. We love the coffee shops and  More

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Over 5 years ago

Having lived over half my life here I can tell you real friends are few and far between. You will go through many and only have a handful who stick with you. Your  More

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