2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Branson, MO vs Ames, IA

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Highlights
Are people in Ames older or younger than people in Branson?
- The Median Age in Ames is 16.2 years younger than in Branson.

Are housing costs cheaper in Ames or Branson?
- Ames housing costs are 4.7% less expensive than Branson housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Ames or Branson?
- The average commute for residents of Ames is 3.4 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Branson.

Things to do in Branson?
Branson, MO is located in Taney County and has a population of about 12,000 people. It’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in the US with attractions like Silver Dollar City theme park and numerous shows being performed nightly. Shopping, golfing and boating are also popular activities 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.

 Branson, MOAmes, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock65,522329,725,481
 Median Income$45,669  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock23.438.4
 Avg. Home Price$250,900  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock2.7%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time19.81  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Branson    15 Reviews

Where do I begin... First and foremost, everything here is expensive. The rent is high! and YOU pay for water and sewer costs, most residents live in old, substandard  More

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Over 4 years ago

It’s expensive living and everything is outdated from condos to apartments, and even housing. Traffic is also during tourist months. I don’t recommend living here.  More

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Branson is in a beautiful part of the extreme northern Ozarks- that's the good. Crime, even tho the local Govt tries to act like it doesn't exist, drugs, & Traffic are  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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