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

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Highlights
Are people in Ames older or younger than people in Boone?
- The Median Age in Ames is 16.1 years younger than in Boone.

Are housing costs cheaper in Ames or Boone?
- Ames housing costs are 54.9% more expensive than Boone housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Ames or Boone?
- The average commute for residents of Ames is 2.2 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Boone.

Things to do in Boone?
Boone is an incorporated city sitting within Boone County, Iowa with plenty of things to do during your stay like attending concerts at the historic Iowa Central Community College perfect for those looking to enjoy some family friendly fun plus nearby Ledges State Park provides stunning views ideal for outdoor activities. Additionally there are several locally owned stores and eateries providing unique items or delicious cuisine great for any budget during their stay here!

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.

 Boone, IAAmes, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock65,522329,725,481
 Median Income$61,997  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock23.438.4
 Avg. Home Price$154,400  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock2.7%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time18.61  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Boone    6 Reviews

Over 12 years ago

As long as you grew up here, or have a relative who did, you will do just fine. Outsiders...they don't want them! Other than a railroad employee, or two, in 5 years, I  More

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Over 12 years ago

Lived there 5 years; other than a few railroad employees, everyone I ran into was related to someone in the community. Most are either resistant to change, or have a  More

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Over 12 years ago

Lived there 5 years; other than a few railroad employees, everyone I ran into was related to someone in the community. Most are either resistant to change, or have a  More

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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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