2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Lakeville, MN vs Ames, IA

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Highlights
Are people in Ames older or younger than people in Lakeville?
- The Median Age in Ames is 12.6 years younger than in Lakeville.

Are housing costs cheaper in Ames or Lakeville?
- Ames housing costs are 45.8% less expensive than Lakeville housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Ames or Lakeville?
- The average commute for residents of Ames is 9.6 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Lakeville.

Things to do in Lakeville?
Lakeville, Minnesota is an attractive town located in the south part of Dakota County. This lovely community offers plenty for visitors to explore such as the scenic Lake Marion or the historic Murphy-Hanrehan Park Reserve. Residents here also enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities at Terrace Oaks West Park or Bush Lake Beach. With its excellent school systems, thriving businesses, and numerous recreational opportunities, it's no wonder why so many people choose to make Lakeville 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.

 Lakeville, MNAmes, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock65,522329,725,481
 Median Income$119,970  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock23.438.4
 Avg. Home Price$441,000  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock2.7%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time26.06  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Lakeville    8 Reviews

We lived in Lakeville for 3 years (2015-18). My husband and I have traveled all over the country. We've lived in California, Hawaii, Arizona, Colorado and Minnesota.  More

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I’ve grown up in Lakeville for 20 years. I know this area better than the back of my hand. The schools are excellent, especially North HS. The housing is cheap and  More

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I have found Lakeville to have many amenities and its nice its so close to the Twin Cities. HOWEVER, unless have bunches of money in your pocket or are a local you will  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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