2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Ames, IA vs Thousand Oaks, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Thousand Oaks older or younger than people in Ames?
- The Median Age in Thousand Oaks is 21.0 years older than in Ames.

Are housing costs cheaper in Thousand Oaks or Ames?
- Thousand Oaks housing costs are 282.6% more expensive than Ames housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Thousand Oaks or Ames?
- The average commute for residents of Thousand Oaks 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 Thousand Oaks?
Thousand Oaks, California is a picturesque city located in Ventura County. With its lush parks and trails, great shopping and dining options, and plenty of local attractions, Thousand Oaks has something for everyone. Nature lovers will love the plentiful outdoor activities available here while business owners can take advantage of the area's many resources. Education is also top-notch in Thousand Oaks with numerous schools, universities, and medical centers nearby. Whether you’re looking for a new home or simply wanting to get away from it all, Thousand Oaks is sure to provide the perfect experience!

 Ames, IAThousand Oaks, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock127,274329,725,481
 Median Income$54,339  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock44.438.4
 Avg. Home Price$239,100  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.9%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

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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 Thousand Oaks    32 Reviews

Over 13 years ago

All you have to do is to check out the climate of Thousand Oaks on this site or on City-Data to see that the climate here in Thousand Oaks is perfect, if you don't like  More

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I've lived here my entire life, which I suppose isn't that long only 17 years. Its been a nice place to grow up, lots of opportunities and places to go as a kid. Park  More

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I have lived here over 10 years. I'm not sure what some of the reviewers are talking about, as it pertains to "nothing to do for kids" here. We have a fantastic Parks  More

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