2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Ames, IA vs Waukee, IA

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Highlights
Are people in Waukee older or younger than people in Ames?
- The Median Age in Waukee is 10.7 years older than in Ames.

Are housing costs cheaper in Waukee or Ames?
- Waukee housing costs are 40.1% more expensive than Ames housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Waukee or Ames?
- The average commute for residents of Waukee is 4.0 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 Waukee?
Waukee, IA sits on either side of Interstate 80/35 just northwest of Des Moines in Dallas county. The city has seen rapid growth due to its great quality of life and many popular attractions including the Waukee Ice Cream Shop and The Waukee Public Library.

 Ames, IAWaukee, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock23,441329,725,481
 Median Income$54,339  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock34.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$239,100  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock3.0%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 Waukee    2 Reviews

Over 16 years ago

moved here from nj the pace is so different here- lots to do- hills and bike paths, restaurants galore, theaters,  More

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It doesn't get any better than this! Low crime, high education standards, clean/attractive, family-oriented community with generally conservative values. Easy  More

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