2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Dowagiac, MI vs Ames, IA

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Highlights
Are people in Ames older or younger than people in Dowagiac?
- The Median Age in Ames is 14.2 years younger than in Dowagiac.

Are housing costs cheaper in Ames or Dowagiac?
- Ames housing costs are 36.5% more expensive than Dowagiac housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Ames or Dowagiac?
- The average commute for residents of Ames is 4.0 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Dowagiac.

Things to do in Dowagiac?
Dowagiac, MI is a small town located in the southwest corner of Michigan. It has a population of just over 5,800 people and is part of the larger Cass County region. Dowagiac is home to a wide range of activities and amenities, including restaurants, shopping centers, parks, and recreation centers. The area also offers plenty of outdoor activities such as fishing and boating. The people of Dowagiac are friendly and welcoming and always willing to lend a hand or give advice. The cost of living in Dowagiac is also quite affordable, making it an attractive option for those looking for a laid-back lifestyle with all the comforts of 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.

 Dowagiac, MIAmes, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock65,522329,725,481
 Median Income$42,371  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock23.438.4
 Avg. Home Price$175,200  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock2.7%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time20.45  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Dowagiac    6 Reviews

If you have completed higher education and need a good paying job, keep looking for a place to live. You will not be happy there. Additionally, the data on Dowagiac  More

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Beware of this community. The mayor has held office for over 30 years and has no intentions of letting go of the title along with the city council. As a resident of SWMI  More

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Over 15 years ago

I'm originally from Dowagiac but left in the late 70's. Been back a time or two and finally 5 yrs. ago moved back. I love Dowagiac. You have 4 distinct seasons,  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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