2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Ely, MN vs Fairbanks, AK

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Highlights
Are people in Fairbanks older or younger than people in Ely?
- The Median Age in Fairbanks is 24.0 years younger than in Ely.

Are housing costs cheaper in Fairbanks or Ely?
- Fairbanks housing costs are 36.8% more expensive than Ely housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Fairbanks or Ely?
- The average commute for residents of Fairbanks is 6.9 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Ely.

Things to do in Ely?
Ely, Minnesota is a small town located along the scenic edge of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. It has a population of just over 3,000 people and is known for its quaint downtown area and close-knit community atmosphere. Residents here enjoy a slower pace of life surrounded by vast natural beauty. Summertime activities include camping, hiking, canoeing, fishing, and more in the nearby parks and forests, while winter brings snowmobiling, skiing, and snowshoeing opportunities nearby. Whether you’re looking for an active outdoor lifestyle or simply an escape from big city bustle and noise, Ely offers a unique experience that makes it feel like home to its residents.

Things to do in Fairbanks?
Fairbanks AK rests close Arctic Circle famed principally for its natural sites such as Chena River State Recreation Area where visitors may take part in different water sports or simply enjoy some peace & tranquility while walking along sandy beaches!

 Ely, MNFairbanks, AKUnited States
 Population  Unlock33,018329,725,481
 Median Income$44,745  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock28.238.4
 Avg. Home Price$201,500  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock7.2%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time19.84  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Ely    1 Reviews

Over 19 years ago

Lots of local talent. For a small city, Ely has a very educated population that brings a variety of talents to local arts and  More

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Reviews for Fairbanks    20 Reviews

I have lived in the Fairbanks area for about 25 years and have become very comfortable with the community and the lifestyle here. That said, retirement is fast  More

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Over 14 years ago

Comments about Fairbanks, both positive and negative, are of interest to me. Was in Fairbanks this past March [and north on Cleary Summit] and fell in love with the  More

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Over 15 years ago

I came to Alaska 15 years ago on an adventure and first lived in Juneau, which I LOVED and then moved to Eagle River, which I loved and now live in Fairbanks! I do not  More

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