2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA vs Ames, IA

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Highlights
Are people in Ames older or younger than people in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
- The Median Age in Ames is 40.2 years younger than in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Are housing costs cheaper in Ames or Carmel-by-the-Sea?
- Ames housing costs are 87.5% less expensive than Carmel-by-the-Sea housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Ames or Carmel-by-the-Sea?
- The average commute for residents of Ames is 6.0 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Things to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
Living in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA is like living in paradise. With its beautiful white sand beaches, stunning ocean views, and colorful gardens, it's easy to see why so many people are drawn to this picturesque city. Its unique shops, restaurants and galleries provide visitors with a unique shopping experience while its numerous parks and trails offer plenty of outdoor activities for all ages. The climate is mild year round, making it the perfect spot for vacationers or those looking for a permanent home. The quaint downtown area of Carmel-by-the-Sea provides a relaxed atmosphere that makes it one of the most desirable places to live on the Central Coast.

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.

 Carmel-by-the-Sea, CAAmes, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock65,522329,725,481
 Median Income$100,365  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock23.438.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,916,200  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock2.7%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time22.45  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Carmel-By-The-Sea    3 Reviews

Over 9 years ago

Climate, cost &  More

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carmel has about 60 vacation homes and a dense cottage-y downtown. basically it is a tourist trap cental business district and a bunch of vacation rental homes. the  More

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Over 17 years ago

Liberals have run me out of town. The political is so overwhelming I am looking to relocate. However, if you are an aging hippie with a great deal of money you will be  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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