2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Dayton, OH vs Ames, IA

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Highlights
Are people in Ames older or younger than people in Dayton?
- The Median Age in Ames is 10.1 years younger than in Dayton.

Are housing costs cheaper in Ames or Dayton?
- Ames housing costs are 128.6% more expensive than Dayton housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Ames or Dayton?
- The average commute for residents of Ames is 4.2 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Dayton.

Things to do in Dayton?
Dayton, Ohio is a vibrant city located in southwestern Ohio. This welcoming community offers plenty for visitors to explore such as the historic Carillon Park or one of many popular restaurants and shops. Residents here also take advantage of all the outdoor activities available at Taylorsville Metropark and Huffman MetroPark. With its excellent school system, thriving businesses, and numerous recreational opportunities it's no wonder why so many people choose to make Dayton their home.

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.

 Dayton, OHAmes, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock65,522329,725,481
 Median Income$37,536  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock23.438.4
 Avg. Home Price$104,600  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock2.7%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time20.64  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Dayton    32 Reviews

Over 2 years ago

I've lived in Dayton Ohio for over 7 years. I live in a historic district within a short walk to Oregon district and down town. The summer concert series at Levitt  More

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Over 7 years ago

Spent years assigned at WPAFB (in Mar 90 - Aug 95') and lived in Oakwood for 5 years. We loved it and have nothing negative to say. Locals were friendly and interested  More

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I spent four and a half miserable years here. Essentially, your only employment opportunities are in healthcare or at the base. I worked at the base; they were  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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