2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Ames, IA vs Tuscaloosa, AL

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Highlights
Are people in Tuscaloosa older or younger than people in Ames?
- The Median Age in Tuscaloosa is 6.1 years older than in Ames.

Are housing costs cheaper in Tuscaloosa or Ames?
- Tuscaloosa housing costs are 19.5% less expensive than Ames housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Tuscaloosa or Ames?
- The average commute for residents of Tuscaloosa is 3.0 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 Tuscaloosa?
Tuscaloosa, Alabama is a vibrant city located in Tuscaloosa County. From its breathtaking views to its many cultural attractions, Tuscaloosa has something for everyone! Outdoor activities like Lake Nicol, Snow Hinton Park and the University of Alabama Arboretum will keep visitors entertained all day long. Plus, those looking for an educational experience can browse places like the Alabama Museum of Natural History or the Tuscaloosa Children’s Theatre. And when they've had their fill of activities, visitors can enjoy a delicious meal from restaurants like Dreamland BBQ or Full Moon BBQ. With so much to offer, Tuscaloosa is an ideal destination for a memorable experience!

 Ames, IATuscaloosa, ALUnited States
 Population  Unlock99,252329,725,481
 Median Income$54,339  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock29.538.4
 Avg. Home Price$239,100  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.4%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 Tuscaloosa    9 Reviews

This is the deal with Tuscaloosa. If you have strong family support that will keep you on track, you may be okay. Alabama has too many broken, uneducated, poor  More

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We've lived in Tuscaloosa for several years now. It's a diverse, friendly college town -- home of the University of Alabama and it's lovely campus -- that is relatively  More

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Tuscaloosa used to have some character. We had a decent live music scene, an up and coming artist community, affordable housing, and there were even several places for  More

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