2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Harrisburg, PA vs Ames, IA

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Highlights
Are people in Ames older or younger than people in Harrisburg?
- The Median Age in Ames is 8.2 years younger than in Harrisburg.

Are housing costs cheaper in Ames or Harrisburg?
- Ames housing costs are 12.6% more expensive than Harrisburg housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Ames or Harrisburg?
- The average commute for residents of Ames is 3.8 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Harrisburg.

Things to do in Harrisburg?
Harrisburg, PA is the state capital located in Dauphin County near the Susquehanna River. Home to several museums and cultural sites such as National Civil War Museum and State Museum of Pennsylvania, Harrisburg provides its residents with plenty of activities such as visiting City Island Park or taking a stroll through Italian Lake Park. The area also features dozens of restaurants and various shops that make living here so enjoyable. Whether you’re looking for educational opportunities or just want easy access to big city attractions — Harrisburg is sure to please!

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.

 Harrisburg, PAAmes, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock65,522329,725,481
 Median Income$44,444  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock23.438.4
 Avg. Home Price$212,400  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock2.7%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time20.26  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Harrisburg    23 Reviews

I wouldn't recommend Harrisburg. I currently live here, but I'm moving to Lancaster in a month. The problem with Harrisburg is that many long-term residents often refer  More

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Over 8 years ago

I moved to Harrisburg right after college and have been here for about 6 years now. This city is OK. Downtown has some nicer restaurants, but still has just as many  More

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Having lived here many years I've noticed that some people are very nice but most won't give you the time of day.Due to many years of "lifetime" politicians, the city is  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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